Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon (TVJ), along with the Dabarkads, joyfully sang the iconic ‘Eat Bulaga’ theme song while donning t-shirts proudly displaying the show’s name.
This celebratory event ensued after a recent court ruling that favored TVJ, affirming them as the original creators of the ‘Eat Bulaga’ trademark.
Tito Sotto, addressing both the live studio audience and the online viewership on their YouTube channel, expressed gratitude for the steadfast support received since May 2023 when TVJ parted ways with Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE) and initiated their show ‘EAT’ on TV5 in July. Tito acknowledged the significant role played by fellow Dabarkads in this unfolding journey.
He reiterated the contents of the decision from Marikina Regional Trial Court Branch 273, dated December 22, 2023, which dismissed the counterclaims of TAPE Inc. and GMA Network. Tito emphasized that any court order is deemed immediately executory. Vic Sotto concurred with Tito, declaring the legal victory and underscoring the importance of adhering to the law and truth.
Vic underscored that the legal dispute transcended the issue of the title, representing a fight for the cherished show that has been an integral part of viewers’ lives since its debut in 1979. He encouraged everyone involved to move forward collectively for a happier and more meaningful continuation of ‘Eat Bulaga.’
Joey de Leon commented on the show’s full-circle journey, noting the return to its roots on Channel 9, now known as CNN Philippines. Commencing from this episode, ‘Eat Bulaga’ will be broadcast every Saturday on CNN Philippines.
With authenticity and destiny in mind, Vic proclaimed, “Eto ang totoo. Eto ang tinadhana. Eto ang tunay na ‘Eat Bulaga.'”
The entire group, including TVJ and Dabarkads, then exuberantly performed the complete lyrics of the ‘Eat Bulaga’ theme song.
In response to the court ruling, TAPE Inc. expressed its intention to appeal the decision in a statement released to GMA News.