The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) issued a stern warning to filmmakers and theater owners regarding fraudulent documents after discovering a forged Permit to Exhibit (PTE) for the indie film series “Tatsulok Trilogy.”
Written and directed by FAMAS Best Director winner Jhonny Bobier, the project was produced by Tanajuan Pelikula Production, a entity that the agency confirmed is not registered with its office.
According to the regulatory body, the movie series never underwent the official review and classification procedure, and no valid clearance was ever granted.
The fake document came to light during the film’s premiere on August 21, when MTRCB Board Member Ma. Cecilia Villarosa spotted her name listed as one of the evaluating members on the certificate despite having never screened the movie.
Subsequent verification uncovered several glaring inconsistencies, including a misspelled name of another board member, the absence of the agency’s official dry seal, and an issuance date that fell on a day when government offices were closed due to severe weather.
“The use of a falsified Permit to Exhibit is a serious violation. No producer or filmmaker may bypass the MTRCB’s review and classification process through fabricated or unauthorized documents,” stated MTRCB Chair and CEO Lala Sotto.
The board reiterated that all media creators and producers must register and submit their content for proper evaluation prior to public distribution.
Subject to due process, the agency confirmed it is initiating appropriate legal steps against Tanajuan Pelikula Production while urging cinema operators to double-check the authenticity of all exhibition permits.
The production company behind “Tatsulok Trilogy” has yet to issue an official comment on the matter.