STATEMENT OF THE BOARD: Imposition of Preventive Suspension on Two (2) SMNI Programs

THE Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) issued a preventive suspension order for two SMNI programs "Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa" and "Laban Kasama ang Bayan," effective 18 December 2023. This decision is a result of a thorough review and investigation into alleged violations related to content aired on these shows.

Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa – 10 October 2023 Episode

The MTRCB received multiple complaints regarding an alleged death threat made by a guest on the 10 October 2023 episode of "Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa." After a Preliminary Conference on 08 November 2023, SMNI committed to pre-recording and reviewing episodes, having been warned by the Board that similar incidents will be dealt with more sternly.

Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa – 15 November 2023 Episode

On 30 November 2023, the Board received a complaint about an alleged death threat and profane language by a guest on SMNI's "Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa." Subsequently, a Notice was issued for SMNI to appear before the Hearing and Adjudication Committee on 07 December 2023, with the respondent represented by counsel Atty. Mark Tolentino.

Laban Kasama ang Bayan – 27 November 2023 Episode

On 30 November 2023, the Board received a complaint about unverified news broadcasted on "Laban Kasama ang Bayan" related to the purported expenditure of PhP1.8 billion in travel funds by House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Following a Notice issued to SMNI, a Hearing and Adjudication Committee meeting was held on 07 December 2023.

Board Decision Imposing Order of Preventive Suspension

Upon careful review and consideration of recent events and complaints received by the Board, it was found that certain aspects of the abovementioned programs may have violated the established guidelines and standards set by Presidential Decree No. 1986 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations governing broadcasting content.

To prevent the possible repetition of these alleged infractions which may pose a negative impact on public welfare, ethical considerations, and the overall reputation of the broadcasting industry, the Board determined the need to preventively suspend the subject program/s by virtue of Section 3, Chapter XIII of the IRR of P.D. No. 1986.

During the 13 December 2023 Board Meeting, a unanimous decision was reached to impose a fourteen-day preventive suspension on "Laban Kasama ang Bayan" and a majority vote for "Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa." The decision aligns with the powers granted to the MTRCB by Presidential Decree No. 1986, ensuring that television programs adhere to contemporary Filipino cultural values.

Legal Basis for Preventive Suspension

The MTRCB cites Section 3(c) of Presidential Decree No. 1986, empowering the Board to approve or disapprove television programs that may be objectionable, including those undermining faith in the government or authorities, and being libelous or defamatory.

Moreover, Section 3, Chapter XIII of the Implementing Rules and Regulations allows the Chairman of the BOARD to issue a Preventive Suspension Order to prevent further violations or protect the interest and welfare of the public.

The decision supports the legal precedent set by Soriano v. Laguardia, et al., where the Supreme Court affirmed the MTRCB's authority to issue preventive suspension as part of its regulatory and supervisory mandate.

The MTRCB emphasizes that said order of preventive suspension is a proactive measure aimed at addressing concerns and ensuring compliance with established standards which shall be in effect for fourteen (14) days, during which SMNI is expected to address and rectify the identified issues.

Cheers to Stress-Free Celebrations: Enjoying the Holiday Season with Healthy Beverage Choices

THE holidays are a time for joy and delicious treats, often accompanied by usual holiday beverage choices like alcohol and sugary drinks. 

While it's tempting to indulge during festive gatherings, excessive drinking can impact your well-being. However, you don't have to compromise on enjoying the season with your loved ones. This year, consider adding a healthy twist to your celebrations by making your own festive barley drinks using Santé Barley with Stevia.

These nourishing drinks, recommended by Santé, one of the fastest-growing distribution and direct selling companies globally dedicated to helping people live better ylives, provide a worry-free way to savor and cherish every moment with your loved ones.

Explore a variety of healthier options. While the holiday season often involves toasting with alcoholic beverages, there's a world of non-alcoholic options that are just as festive and enjoyable. Consider indulging in mocktails, sparkling water with fruit infusions, or virgin versions of your favorite cocktails.

One recipe you can make is a sparkling barley drink inspired by a mojito, containing sparkling water, Santé Barley Powder with Stevia, lemon slices, and mint leaves. Simply combine a scoop of Santé Barley Powder with Stevia with sparkling water and add fresh citrus slices and a few mint leaves for a burst of flavor.

Create a drink with natural and fresh ingredients. When selecting ingredients for your holiday beverages, choose fresh and natural options. Freshly squeezed juices, real fruit purees, and herbs can elevate your drinks without the need for added sugars or artificial flavorings. This not only enhances the taste but also ensures that your beverages contribute positively to your overall well-being.

One recipe you can make is creating a yogurt drink with mixed berries and Santé Barley Powder with Stevia. You can blend Santé Barley Powder with Stevia, mixed berries, and a dollop of Greek yogurt until smooth. Sweeten with honey if desired. Pour into festive glasses and garnish with additional berries for a delightful and nutrient-packed treat.

The health benefits of Santé Barley Powder with Stevia are the perfect you can give to yourself this holiday season. Certified organic barley grass by BioGro, it contains dietary fiber that aids in digestive health. Rich in Vitamins A, B, and C, along with essential nutrients such as potassium, iron, zinc, and more, a single scoop in a glass of water can boost your immune system and promote regular bowel movements. This festive season, enjoy the added health benefits while toasting to joyous moments.

"In Santé, we believe that the joy of celebrations can be complemented by mindful beverage choices. Our focus is on providing options that enhance the festive spirit while aligning with individuals' wellness goals," said Joey Marcelo, Chief Executive Officer of Santé.

With its mission to help people live better lives, Santé promotes, produces, and distributes natural health and wellness products and services. Santé consistently delivers top-quality products to its loyal customers globally.

To learn more about the Santé and its health and wellness products and services, visit its website at mySanté.com.

GMA Network airs the action-packed final match between Mapúa and San Beda this Sunday

WHICH school will take pride in bringing home the championship crown this season? 

Witness as the Mapúa Cardinals and San Beda Red Lions battle it out in their much-awaited final face-off in Game 3 of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 99 Men’s Basketball Finals live this December 17, 2 PM at the Araneta Coliseum.

The game will have a simulcast on GMA and GTV and livestream on the social media pages of GMA Sports and NCAA.

Game 1 of the best-of-three finals series boosted the confidence of the Red Lions as they trumped the Cardinals, 68-63, moving an inch closer to the championship crown. However, the Cardinals proved their ability to bounce back from a tough loss in Game 2, 71-65, forcing a winner-take-all Game 3. 

“We are very much excited for the final face-off between the Mapúa Cardinals and San Beda Red Lions with Game 3 of the best-of-three championship series happening this December 17 at the Araneta Coliseum. We wish both teams good luck as they vie for the much-coveted championship crown and congratulations in advance to the winning school. 

"We look forward to the support of the NCAA community and the sports fans as this game will definitely be another historical moment in the NCAA,” says Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor Amoroso.

The NCAA Men’s Basketball Finals will be anchored by Sports Anchor Anton Roxas. Joining him is Sports Analyst Coach Topex Robinson.

Adding fun to the halftime excitement during the finals are Sparkle artists Thea Astley and Anthony Rosaldo.

Don’t miss Game 3 of the NCAA Season 99 Men’s Basketball Finals this December 17 airing live simulcast on GMA and GTV.

Kapuso abroad can catch all the action via international channel GMA News TV.

For more updates on NCAA, visit its official website www.ncaa.com.ph. Follow @ncaaphilippines, @gmasynergy, and @gmasportsph on social media.

For more stories about the Kapuso Network, visit www.gmanetwork.com.

KMJS Christmas Special Takes Viewers to a Trip to Switzerland

 

EXPERIENCE a winter wonderland Christmas this holiday season as award-winning journalist Jessica Soho takes viewers to viral places in Switzerland in Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) Christmas Special, “Lumipad ang aming team sa Switzerland,” airing this Sunday, December 17, 8:15 PM on GMA-7.

Feel the holiday vibes and spirit as Jessica and the KMJS team tour one of the richest countries in the world while riding a train to understand and discover why millennials and Gen Zs consider Switzerland to be a dream destination.

KMJS visits the viewing deck of Matterhorn, one of the iconic mountains in Switzerland, which is known to be imprinted in the packaging of a popular chocolate brand.

Jessica also conquers her fear of heights as she rides a rotating gondola, Ice Flyer, and walks on the highest suspension bridge in Europe that is located at the summit of Mt. Titlis.

The KMJS team searches for the famous Santa Claus riding in his flying sleigh as they roam around Montreux.

The tour in Switzerland is not complete without Jessica visiting fellow Filipinos and knowing their success stories. Get to know Mila, a daughter of a farmer in the Philippines, who now has a 22-hectare hacienda in Switzerland!

The award-winning journalist likewise interviews Filipinos who found their love life and forever in Switzerland. Viewers will definitely feel kilig with Chantal and his Swiss fiance Pascual who got engaged at the bridge where the Korean series 'Crash Landing on You' filmed.

Jessica also travels to Geneva to attend the annual Christmas party of almost a thousand Overseas Filipino Workers. She joins the fun and accepts their challenge to dance the famous Tinikling.

Catch the Christmas adventures and surprises of KMJS in its Christmas Special, “Lumipad ang aming team sa Switzerland” airing this Sunday, December 17, 8:15 PM on GMA-7. Global Pinoys can catch KMJS via GMA international channel GMA Pinoy TV.

For more stories about the Kapuso Network, visit www.gmanetwork.com. #

Sustainable Snacking: Mondelez Philippines Hosts 1st Coastal Clean-up Activity

LEADING snacking company Mondelez Philippines held its first-ever coastal clean-up volunteer program at the picturesque Las Pinas-Parañaque Wetland Park as part of its commitment to sustainability.

In partnership with the social business HOPE Philippines, the initiative is a part of the company’s efforts to support the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law and promoting environmental consciousness by helping minimize marine debris. The initiative also supports its goal of achieving 100% plastic neutrality, which it committed earlier this year.

A number of employee volunteers participated in the joint endeavor, which aims to create an impact on the marine ecosystem inside the Wetland Park. The activity included Mark Allen Besa, the head of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Parañaque City; Caitlin Punzalan, the Corporate and Government Affairs Lead for Mondelez Philippines; and Meg Anne Santos, Senior Sustainability Campaign Manager at Plastic Credit Exchange, Mondelez Philippines’ partner in plastic waste diversion.

Leading The Future of Sustainability

“As a company deeply invested in the well-being of our communities and environment, Mondelez Philippines is proud to participate in this coastal cleanup,” Punzalan said, expressing enthusiasm for this endeavor.

In its quest to promote sustainability, Mondelez Philippines has taken steps to use less packaging, better packaging and help improve waste collection and diversion systems in the country. In its quest to promote sustainability, Mondelez Philippines has taken steps to use less packaging, better packaging, and help improve waste collection and diversion systems in the country. 

This year alone, Mondelez Philippines has pledged to collect and divert 100% of its post-consumer plastic packaging, ahead of the requirements of the EPR Law. It has also established a plastic recycling facility within its home City of Paranaque in celebration of its 60th year in the Philippines.

The cleanup effort in Las Pinas-Parañaque Wetland Park helped collect 184 kilos of waste, including mostly plastic packaging. This activity helps demonstrate Mondelez Philippines’ commitment to helping create a circular economy where plastic is viewed not as waste but as a valuable resource and should be collected properly and diverted through recycling or upcycling.

Mondelēz International, Inc.  empowers people to snack right in over 150 countries around the world with 2022 net revenues of approximately $31.5 billion, MDLZ is leading the future of snacking with iconic global and local brands such as OREO, belVita and LU biscuits; Cadbury Dairy Milk, Milka and Toblerone chocolate; Sour Patch Kids candy and Trident gum.

BREAKING THE MOLD: PENCH ANDANAR IS 2024’S WHITE CASTLE WHISKY 69 CALENDAR GIRL

IN a bold move that challenges traditional beauty norms, White Castle Whiskey has announced Angelie "Pench" Andanar as their new calendar girl. 

This decision marks a significant shift in the portrayal of beauty, especially in the Philippines, where tattoos have often been viewed with skepticism.

At 36, Pench, a freelance model and single mother from Pampanga, defies the typical calendar girl stereotype. Her detailed and extensive body tattoos set her apart, making her a symbol of edgy beauty and self-expression.

Pench kicked off her modeling career in 2006 and gained notable recognition as FHM Philippines' Girlfriend Of The Month in May 2010. Her unique combination of an angelic face and bold tattoos has established her as a prominent influencer in beauty, fashion, and lifestyle.

Pench's resilience and dedication to her craft are as remarkable as her advocacy against tattoo discrimination in the Philippines.

Pench’s collaboration with White Castle Whiskey transcends a mere modeling gig; it's a profound statement. White Castle, a brand known for its iconic imagery of beauties on white horses, is taking a stand for inclusivity and the celebration of diverse forms of beauty. By choosing Pench, they are not only embracing her individuality but also sending a powerful message that beauty transcends conventional standards.

Pench's advocacy against tattoo discrimination in the Philippines is a significant part of her identity. Her extensive body tattoos are not just adornments; they are a statement of her individuality and a challenge to societal norms.

Her influence extends to Alua, a platform where she shares exclusive content with her audience. With over 242 photos and 19 videos, Pench offers an insider’s view into her life and style, further solidifying her status as a role model and a voice for self-expression.

White Castle Whiskey, from Destileria Limtuaco & Co., Inc., the Philippines' oldest distillery, has long been an industry pioneer. It has embraced diversity and inclusivity in its marketing strategies, evident in the bold choices they make for their iconic calendars. Moving away from traditional imagery, the company has embraced a more inclusive and diverse array of personalities.

Notable examples include vlogger Ninong Ry, known for his charismatic and unconventional online presence; and Ria Atayde, who promotes body positivity, challenging traditional  beauty standards and encouraging a more inclusiveview of beauty. Her involvement signifies the brand's commitment to celebrating all body types.

In a similarly progressive move, Destileria Limtuaco made a significant stride in inclusivity by featuring Sassa Gurl, their very first LGBTQIA+ personality. This not only highlights the brand's openness to diverse representations but also resonates with a broader audience, acknowledging and celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community in a public and influential platform. 

These choices underscore Destileria Limtuaco's dedication to breaking away from conventionalnorms, showcasing a range of personalities that embody the different aspects of beauty, individuality, and empowerment in the Philippine liquor industry.

Their decision to feature Pench aligns with their history of innovation and breaking boundaries. The brand, which has been an outlet for inclusivity since 2020, is making a significant cultural impact with this campaign. It's a celebration of self-expression as an art form, challenging the stigma around tattooed individuals and conveying that tattoos are a form of art and personal expression.

Choosing Pench as the new face of White Castle Whiskey symbolizes the evolving perceptions of beauty. It's a move that not only acknowledges tattoos as a form of beauty but also celebrates the stories and experiences they represent. 

Pench Andanar, with her compelling persona and advocacy, is not just a model; with the support of White Castle Whiskey, she continues to be a trailblazer who redefines beauty standards, one tattoo at a time.

On 'Korina's Interviews': Iza Calzado talks about over-eating and depression

IT'S one juicy revelation to another as award-winning dramatic actress Iza Calzado sits down with veteran broadcast journalist Korina Sanchez-Roxas on 'Korina Interviews' this Sunday, December 3, 5:00 pm, on NET 25. 

Find out why food became her best friend and how her life lost direction after the death of her mother.

KORINA SANCHEZ-ROXAS & IZA CALZADO

Why did she become an actor even though she didn't want to?

What are the crazy conditions of Iza with her fiancé before they gotmarried?

This Iza is really physically abusive and is she really a workaholic?

KORINA SANCHEZ-ROXAS & IZA CALZADO

Find out the secret aand hottest revelation of Iza Calzado this Sunday on NET25 on 'Korina Interviews' right after the romantic-comedy 'Good Will'.