Wazzup Pilipinas!?
Senator raises concerns about moral degradation and exploitation in streaming content.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada has sharply criticized streaming platform VMX (formerly known as Vivamax) for allegedly distributing pornographic material and exploiting performers with minimal pay. The senator delivered a compelling privilege speech in the Senate, where he underscored the harmful impact of explicit content on society and the dangers of inadequate regulation in the streaming industry.
Estrada's statement adds weight to ongoing conversations about content accountability in digital platforms. Once primarily known for its mainstream entertainment offerings, VMX has drawn attention—and controversy—for its increasingly explicit "sexy content." Estrada argued that such content undermines the country’s moral and cultural values, particularly in a digital age where access is widespread and uncontrolled.
“Vivamax, a subscription-based popular streaming service, has gained attention not for its meaningful and family-oriented content, but for inundating the digital space with films and shows filled with graphic, sexual, and exploitative material,” Estrada said.
A Threat to Younger Audiences?
Highlighting the alarming accessibility of these films, Estrada emphasized that such content could influence younger viewers. VMX offers subscription plans ranging from P169 to P499 monthly, making it an affordable and easily accessible streaming option for many households.
“This situation is even more concerning because many of these materials are easily accessible and may target younger audiences, who are more susceptible to influence,” Estrada warned.
Estrada’s speech comes as concerns grow over how streaming platforms regulate—or fail to regulate—their content. He cited the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), which had previously flagged VMX for its explicit content. Despite earlier commitments to self-regulation, Estrada argued that VMX has failed to uphold its promise.
“Vivamax committed to ensure that the content on its platforms is aligned with contemporary Filipino cultural values, not objectionable for being immoral, indecent, contrary to law, or good customs… Ngunit tila hindi tumutupad ang Vivamax sa kasunduang ito,” Estrada said.
Legal Basis and Performer Exploitation
Estrada invoked Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code (RPC), which explicitly prohibits the distribution, exhibition, or sale of immoral or indecent content. He stressed that platforms like VMX risk breaching this provision by offering content that closely resembles material found on adult websites.
“Lumabas na mga pelikulang pang-streaming platform ng kumpanya ay nababagay lamang sa mga porn sites,” he added, citing the MTRCB’s monitoring findings.
Beyond content concerns, Estrada pointed to the exploitation of performers involved in such productions. According to his claims, performers are paid as little as P15,000 per day, often completing full-length films within just two days.
“Fifteen thousand pesos kada araw… Kaya hindi nakakapagtaka na madali silang makapag-produce ng ganitong klaseng pelikula sa loob ng maiksing panahon,” Estrada noted, suggesting that the rapid production cycle further highlights the commercial exploitation at play.
Artistic Freedom vs. Moral Boundaries
While Estrada acknowledged the importance of artistic freedom and creative expression, he stressed that such liberties come with responsibilities. Films and shows, he argued, should not come at the cost of societal values.
“While I acknowledge the importance of artistic freedom and creative expression, these should come with boundaries, especially when they begin to undermine our society's moral fabric,” Estrada said.
He clarified that his stance is not about censorship but about protecting human dignity and cultural decency. “Wala po akong nakikitang redeeming values na mapupulot ang mga manonood kundi ang pagsilbihan ang mga tumatangkilik ng kalaswaan at kawalan ng respeto sa dignidad ng tao,” Estrada explained.
Erosion of Cultural Values
Estrada issued a call for vigilance among Filipino consumers, urging them to be discerning about the content they consume and share. He challenged content creators to recognize their influential role in shaping public discourse, values, and cultural norms.
“As consumers of digital content, we must be vigilant and discerning about what we watch and share. Content creators must likewise recognize their responsibility in shaping public discourse and cultural norms,” Estrada concluded.
The Growing Debate on Digital Regulation
Estrada’s speech has reignited debates surrounding regulation of online content in the Philippines. With streaming services rapidly becoming dominant platforms for entertainment, concerns over morality, exploitation, and cultural values have taken center stage.
The senator’s comments also highlight the delicate balance between creative freedom and social accountability. While platforms like VMX argue for artistic expression, critics like Estrada insist that boundaries must be drawn to safeguard society's moral fabric.
What Happens Next?
Estrada’s remarks are likely to prompt further scrutiny of streaming services and may result in renewed calls for stronger content regulations. Whether through self-regulation, government oversight, or public advocacy, the debate on explicit content in digital platforms has only begun.
As the Philippines navigates this complex terrain, one question looms large: How can the nation preserve its cultural and moral values while adapting to an increasingly digital world?
Analysis: Estrada’s stance reflects a broader societal concern about cultural degradation and the exploitation of performers in the digital entertainment industry. With streaming platforms on the rise, stakeholders must consider their responsibility in shaping content that reflects decency, respect, and cultural integrity.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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