AKTOR stands firm as artists urge Congress to rethink Senate Bill 2805

The League of Filipino Actors has called on lawmakers to halt the passage of Senate Bill 2805 and restart the legislative process in consultation with the creative industry.

In a statement released this week, the group said that policies must be based on the lived realities of artists, performers, and creators. It stressed that any legislation affecting freedom of expression, artistic integrity, and livelihood should involve those who know the industry best.

“We support protection against harm and exploitation — but not vague standards or sweeping controls that risk limiting voices and reducing opportunities for Filipino creatives,” AKTOR stated.

Senate Bill 2805 seeks to expand the regulatory authority of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB). However, it has raised concern among artists and cultural groups due to its possible implications for digital and streaming content. Critics say the bill’s language could blur the line between classification and censorship, potentially curbing artistic freedom.

AKTOR said it recognizes the need for safeguards, especially those protecting women and minors, but added that these are already in place and followed by responsible creators. What it opposes, the group said, is a centralized model of control that could hinder rather than support storytelling.

“We believe in a self-regulating industry, where accountability is upheld from within, and reforms are made in genuine partnership with the community,” the statement read.

The group is not rejecting regulation entirely but is pushing for a more inclusive and transparent process. It said future policies must be shaped through meaningful dialogue and mutual respect rather than fear and moral policing.

“We urge our legislators to bring the indAustry to the table and begin again— so that any regulatory framework truly protects, not polices, the creative space,” AKTOR declared.

The group emphasized that the government’s role should be to nurture, not restrict, cultural expression. It reaffirmed its commitment to working toward a fairer system that protects audience rights while respecting the dignity of Filipino artists.