Allegations about Poe’s absenteeism absolute lie

AS BOARD members of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) in the years Sen. Grace Poe chaired this agency, we take exception to the allegation of INQUIRER columnist Ramon Tulfo about her alleged absenteeism at the time, as well as the supposed reason behind it (“Under fire from all sides,” Metro, 3/15/16).

“My sources at the Movie Television Classification Board (sic) (MTRCB), where she was chair before running for the Senate, claimed the chain-smoking Poe was reportedly always absent because of a hangover from drinking the previous night,” Tulfo said. This is pure canard, an absolute falsehood.

Also, Tulfo raised other matters appearing to be part of a typical demolition job against a presidential candidate, but it was his final statement in the column that we feel we have to respond to and give the lie, in the service of the truth.

As MTRCB chair, Grace Poe Llamanzares fulfilled her responsibilities most commendably, exceeding all expectations with her zeal, intelligence, drive, initiatives and positive decisions, which led the board in exercising its mandate in a decidedly more progressive and proactive manner.

Among the numerous improvements she initiated were: the addition of the “R-16” rating for movies, and the “SPG” (Strong Parental Guidance) classification for TV programs; the holding of the “First MTRCB Child Summit”; agreements which limit bus franchises and interisland ships to show only “G”- and “PG”-rated films in public conveyances; the regular conduct of public hearings and conferences with stakeholders from all sectors; and the swift adjudication of controversial incidents involving broadcasters, show biz personalities and dominant networks.

We were all energized and inspired by her devotion to work, let alone her ideas. To repeat, Tulfo’s allegation about her absenteeism is farthest from the truth, an absolute fabrication.

The little over two years we came to know her remains a splendid memory of how it was to be inspired by a vigorous leader who was a quick study and a sharp intellect, admirably articulate, and with evident organizational and administrative skills, yet possessed of humility, an open mind, and a generous and gracious character.

We also hope and pray that media commentators refrain from spewing ludicrous allegations from unnamed sources or from inventing black propaganda which do not advance civil and rational discourse but instead promote personal gain, like Tulfo’s offensive commentary did.