When a veteran broadcaster and the newly-appointed media censorship board chair chatted together on national TV, it wasn’t surprising to find that they had a lot of similar ground to cover: youth empowerment.

On the November-10 episode of Get It Straight on UNTV, newly-seated Movie and Television Review and Classification Board Chairperson Mary Grace Poe-Llamanzares sat front and center with award-winning journalist, Daniel Razon.

With Razon’s straightforward questions, the two immediately got right down to the many pressing issues facing the new MTRCB administration. But the moment youth empowerment entered the discussion, the two knew it wouldn’t leave as quickly, as each imparted their thoughts on how media can help educate the youth better.

Mary Grace Poe-Llamanzares showed her belief to the cause by saying that programs and movies that showcase good values should be recognized.

“We need to use the media as a catalyst for social change. … When the board is finally complete, we will think of how we can go about doing this,” Poe-Llamanzares said.

Daniel Razon, the man asking all the questions, is an active advocate of this ideal. Razon has helped establish the La Verdad Christian College – the first college in the Philippines which offers free tuition fees, books, uniforms, and even food to its scholars.  One of its flagship courses is AB Mass Communications.

And things are looking up for the implementation of youth-centered ideals.  According to the new MTRCB Chief, the president of the land is on her side.

“It’s heartwarming to hear that the President say he’s supporting us.  What he does, like all other effective leaders, is that he tries to choose the best-qualified people and he gives them a chance to prove themselves,” remarked Poe-Llamanzares.

Aside from youth empowerment, another weighty issue was tackled between the two of them: censorship.

Today’s brand of shows being aired on national TV did not escape Razon, who cited ‘noontime shows’ broadcasting dancers with skimpy clothing. To this, Poe-Llamanzares replied that the MTRCB will be celebrating Women’s Month in December, and that it would be the time to hopefully spread awareness and respect for women in the media.

It may be remembered that the previous MTRCB administration faced a lot of gripe from TV shows, and even former MTRCB Chairperson Armida Siguion-Reyna, called the previous board members and chairperson “power-trippers and ignoramuses” for uncalled-for rulings. Poe-Llamanzares admitted that corruption may have played a part in such events.

“We know that there are some influential groups or corporations that govern the MTRCB. They should be under the governance of the MTRCB, but because they are influential corporations or groups, sometimes they are the ones pressuring those who compose the MTRCB,” admits Poe-Llamanzares.

In true Get-It-Straight fashion, Daniel Razon also asked the new MTRCB Chief what her stand is on movie censorships. She replied that the government or other cultural groups can designate a place where films are not what the general public would typically go for can be shown.

“We cannot release movies that the general public isn’t ready for yet, and we have to educate them little by little,” she added.

Before the interview ended, Daniel Razon asked if Mary Grace can promise that she would not take part in any corrupt activities in the agency.

“If I falter, I don’t think I can be successful,” said Mary Grace. “This is why I am firm in my decision not to join the forces of evil, and I know it’s an everyday challenge, but with the help of those who love me – my mother, my husband, my children, and the memory of my father — I know I can do it.”

“Include us with those who will pray for you,” remarked Daniel Razon.

Get It Straight, a segment in Daniel Razon’s Good Morning Kuya! started airing on June 1, 2010, but starting this month, it can also be viewed from 6:45 to 7:15 on weeknights. With guests ranging from politicians to celebrities and even scientists, Daniel is certain to ask the questions that the public really want answered with no holds barred. Hence, the program’s slogan: “Get it straight with Daniel Razon: Ang programang bawal ang pikon.” (The program on TV not meant for the touchy.)

Good Morning Kuya! (GMK) was recently honored in the 24th PMPC Star Awards, tying with ABS-CBN’s Umagang Kay Ganda as the Best Morning Show — the latest laurel of the show. In 2009, GMK received an Anak TV Seal from the Southeast Asian Foundation for Children and Television, certifying it as a kid-friendly show.