Veteran actor and TV host Vic Sotto’s legal team is set to file an appeal with the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) to review the controversial film ‘Pepsi Paloma’.
The announcement was made by Sotto’s legal counsel, Atty. Enrique “Buko” Dela Cruz, during an interview on ‘Agenda’ hosted by Korina Sanchez-Roxas and Pinky Webb on Bilyonaryo News Channel.
“Hihilingin namin na suriing mabuti ang nasabing pelikula at alamin kung papayagan ba itong maipalabas sa publiko,” Dela Cruz stated.
This move follows a recent court decision partially favoring Sotto in his petition for a writ of habeas data against director Darryl Yap. The Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court has ordered the removal of the film’s teaser video—where Sotto’s name was mentioned—from all online platforms.
“We are thankful for this decision. May cyber libel case pa kami against Mr. Yap. Doon na kami mag-focus ngayon,” Dela Cruz added.
The court’s ruling, however, allows Yap to continue with the production and eventual release of the film.
Concerns were raised about potential bias, as MTRCB Chairperson Lala Sotto is Vic Sotto’s niece. However, Dela Cruz expressed confidence in the agency’s fairness, saying, “I’m sure they have their own internal rules or policies tungkol diyan.”
Director Darryl Yap has confirmed that he will submit ‘Pepsi Paloma’ for MTRCB review. During court proceedings, Yap reportedly made admissions that Sotto’s legal team plans to use in their ongoing libel case.
The ‘Pepsi Paloma’ film has sparked intense debate for revisiting the life and circumstances surrounding the late 1980s starlet. The teaser video, which prominently mentioned Vic Sotto’s name, became a focal point in the legal dispute. Sotto’s camp argued that the teaser was defamatory and damaging to his reputation.
As the legal battle continues, Sotto’s team aims to protect his reputation while seeking proper regulatory oversight of the film. Meanwhile, Yap remains determined to push forward with the movie’s release, making this a significant case in Philippine entertainment and media law.
