The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has announced that they will review a controversial joke made by television host Joey De Leon during the ‘E.A.T’ noontime show.
De Leon has faced backlash from the public for referencing suicide by hanging, saying a rope, or ‘lubid’ in Filipino, can be placed around a person’s neck.
The incident occurred in the Gimme 5 segment aired on 23 September 2023, and since then, it has stirred up a wave of negative reactions, especially from netizens and mental health advocates.
They expressed dismay over De Leon’s remarks, which were considered insensitive and potentially harmful.
In an official statement, MTRCB addressed the complaints, saying, “Taking cognizance of the complaints from the viewing public in relation to ‘E.A.T.’ Gimme 5 segment, the MTRCB shall determine if the same are valid and presumably violative of Presidential Decree No. 1986 and/or its Implementing Rules and Regulations.”
One netizen criticized De Leon, stating, “The world is a better place if only Joey de Leon knows how to keep his mouth shut.”
Another urged the MTRCB to take action, reminding them of the media guidelines on suicide reporting that the office has endorsed.