ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE
Advocates Philippines
MTRCB Says Film About Missing Sabungeros Was Not Rejected But Lacked Key Document
Photo credit: GMA Pictures
The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board clarified that the film “Lost Sabungeros” was not rejected nor denied review, contrary to circulating claims online.
According to the Board, the producers of the film were simply asked to submit the required documentary requirements before the review process could proceed.
One of the key requirements was a certification confirming that the film’s subject matter is not involved in any pending court case. The MTRCB said this document is necessary to ensure compliance with the sub judice rule, which prevents public discussion or presentation of issues that are currently being heard by the courts.
The agency explained that this step is part of its legal mandate under Presidential Decree No. 1986, which authorizes the MTRCB to review motion pictures and make sure materials intended for public viewing comply with existing laws.
Under the decree, the Board may disapprove materials that could constitute contempt of court or deal with matters considered sub judice.
The MTRCB also pointed out that the production team has not yet submitted the required certification, which prevents the Board from continuing with its evaluation.
In fact, the film’s director, Kristoffer J. Brazil, acknowledged the requirement in a letter sent to the Board dated February 12, 2026.
Because the document has not been provided, the MTRCB said the review process cannot move forward, stressing that claims the film was twice denied review are incorrect.
According to the Board, the producers of the film were simply asked to submit the required documentary requirements before the review process could proceed.
One of the key requirements was a certification confirming that the film’s subject matter is not involved in any pending court case. The MTRCB said this document is necessary to ensure compliance with the sub judice rule, which prevents public discussion or presentation of issues that are currently being heard by the courts.
The agency explained that this step is part of its legal mandate under Presidential Decree No. 1986, which authorizes the MTRCB to review motion pictures and make sure materials intended for public viewing comply with existing laws.
Under the decree, the Board may disapprove materials that could constitute contempt of court or deal with matters considered sub judice.
The MTRCB also pointed out that the production team has not yet submitted the required certification, which prevents the Board from continuing with its evaluation.
In fact, the film’s director, Kristoffer J. Brazil, acknowledged the requirement in a letter sent to the Board dated February 12, 2026.
Because the document has not been provided, the MTRCB said the review process cannot move forward, stressing that claims the film was twice denied review are incorrect.
Mar 6, 2026
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