Declare tabloids as for adults only

A lawmaker at the House of Representatives has filed a bill that would classify tabloids containing sexual stories and images as pornographic or X-rated.

Quezon City 2nd District Rep. Precious Hipolito Castelo in House Bill (HB) 4733 stated that, just like movies and television programs which are strictly reviewed, tabloids should also be subject to review “with an end in view of achieving intelligent viewing and protecting our children.”

“By the same token, smutty tabloids should be regulated in such manner as to keep them at bay to protect the moral integrity of our children,” Castelo added.

In the bill, she cited a recent study by the Commission on Population, which stated the negative effects of pornography on youths, including teenage pregnancy and an increase in HIV infections.

The study gathered data on how pornography drives the youth toward early sexual activity.

Under Section 2 of HB 4733, or the National Restriction on Tabloids Act, tabloids containing sexual stories and images shall be denominated as “Only for Adults” and shall be made available exclusively to persons at least 18 years of age.