MTRCB confirms no violation in Vice Ganda’s on-air reprimand of Axel Cruz

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has confirmed that TV host Vice Ganda did not violate any regulations when he reprimanded male contestant Axel Cruz on the ‘EXpecially For You’ segment for attempting to kiss female searcher Christine.

This clarification was provided by MTRCB Chairperson Lala Sotto-Antonio following inquiries from showbiz insider Ogie Diaz, amidst widespread online discussions and backlash against Vice Ganda.

In a YouTube vlog on June 7, Ogie Diaz recounted his conversation with Chairperson Sotto-Antonio. “There was no violation in that incident,” he quoted Sotto-Antonio as saying. “In my opinion, the hosts acted appropriately given the situation. It’s as simple as that.”

Ogie also noted that Chairperson Sotto-Antonio might prefer to avoid further commentary to prevent backlash from netizens, especially considering the rivalry between Vice Ganda’s show and ‘Eat Bulaga,’ which has connections to her father, Tito Sotto.

“Kilala ko si Lala, ayaw na niyang masyadong magsalita. I’m sure maraming humihingi ng panig niya. Siyempre pag nagsalita si Lala, iba-bash si Lala kasi nga kalaban ‘yung Tatay (Tito Sotto) ‘yung Eat Bulaga ng show ni Vice,” Ogie said.

He further mentioned that Chairperson Sotto-Antonio enjoys watching ‘EXpecially For You’ and is familiar with the context of the show. She believes Vice Ganda’s intervention was appropriate.

Ogie Diaz also highlighted the cultural context of kissing in showbiz, where beso-beso is a common gesture among acquaintances and friends, regardless of gender. This norm adds complexity to the situation but does not constitute a violation.

The incident, which involved Vice Ganda calling out Axel Cruz on live television, sparked significant online debate, with opinions varying widely on the appropriateness of the host’s actions. Despite the mixed reactions, the MTRCB’s stance remains clear: no rules were broken during the broadcast.