MTRCB bans airing of 'Private Convos with Doc Rica' for featuring discussions on sex
The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has prohibited One News' TV program Private Convos with Doc Rica from airing over having "explicit" discussions on sexual experiences.
The review board released a statement about the ban on Jan. 30 saying that the program "appeals to 'prurient interest,'" or encouraging excessive interest in sexual matters. The show has also allegedly failed to adhere to MTRCB rating guidelines.
On Aug. 24, 2023, MTRCB's Monitoring and Inspection Unit (MIU) submitted an incident report stating Private Convos with Doc Rica featured discussions on sexual experiences and fantasies and used inappropriate language.
The show was also reported for using "explicit" terms such as "self-masturbation, anal sex, and oral sex" during its Sept. 6 episode.
"After a thorough examination of the case, including a comprehensive analysis of the position papers submitted by the Respondents, the Board determined that the respondent Private Convos with Doc Rica television program format involved detailed discussions of guests' sexual awakenings, leading to explicit narrations of intimate experiences, and employed language deemed unsuitable for broadcasting," MTRCB's release read.
The office's chairperson Lala Sotto added that the MTRCB "unequivocally denounce[s] any blatant disregard for the law."
"With the freedom to broadcast content comes a responsibility. We implore broadcasters and content providers to be circumspect and responsible in their creative processes, acknowledging the profound influence that onscreen content holds," Sotto continued.
The board also added that it has concerns over the appropriateness of the medium, time slot of the show as it is still within "child-viewing hours" and its social and educational value.
Private Convos with Doc Rica is hosted by sex therapist Dr. Rica Cruz and aired every Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. on One News beginning May 2023.
On her show, Rica talked about sexuality, consent, and other topics about sexual wellness. She's had guests like Macoy Dubs, Inka Magnaye, Gladys Reyes, Toni Fowler, and more on the show.
PhilSTAR L!fe has reached out to One News and Dr. Rica for comment.