In what could be a win for the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is ordering a broadcaster organization to stop airing the song ‘Amatz’ by Filipino rapper Shanti Dope.
The NTC said ‘Amatz’ violates the Broadcaster’s Code of the Philippines.
PDEA Chief Aaron Aquino said that the song promotes illegal use of Marijuana which is still considered prohibited drug under the Comprehensive Drugs Act.
“Lakas ng amats ko, sobrang natural, walang halong kemikal,” and “Ito hinangad ko lipadin ay mataas pa, sa kaya ipadama sa’yo ng gramo, ‘di bale nang musika ikamatay,”
Aquino said these lines promote illegal drugs.
The NTC reminds Kapisanan ng mga Broadcaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) members that freedom of expression is not absolute.
“Songs with lyrics or messages that are vulgar, indecent, promote substance abuse, gender discrimination, racism, satanism, violence or sexual perversion, or demeans any member of any sector shall not be played,” the NTC said in a statement quoting the broadcaster’s code.
Shanti Dope’s management said they stand by their first statement. “Universal Records has been speaking with the pertinent government agencies with regards this issue and we think that is enough.”
Artists groups questioned PDEA’s move saying this is a violation or a suppression of creative freedom.
