Veteran TV host and actor Vic Sotto is reportedly preparing to take legal action against controversial filmmaker Darryl Yap in response to the inclusion of his name in the teaser of Yap’s upcoming film, ‘The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma.’
According to a report by TV5, Sotto’s legal counsel confirmed that the complaint will be filed at the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court on January 9. The film, which tells the story of the late 1980s actress Pepsi Paloma, sparked public outrage following the release of its trailer on January 1.
The teaser, which included references to Sotto, prompted the TV host to seek legal recourse. However, the exact charges against Yap have yet to be disclosed.
In response to the criticism, Yap took to Facebook to address the controversy surrounding his film. He defended his decision to create the biopic, asserting that he felt a responsibility to shed light on the unresolved story.
“ang aking kababayan na si Pepsi Paloma, Olongapeña, Artista, Biktima. sa darating na 2025, bago sumapit ang ika-40 anibersayo ng kanyang kontrobersyal na pagpapatiwakal—Kilalanin natin ang Anino, ang Multo, ang Alingasgas ng kanyang Pagkatao. Ang Aking ika-17 Pelikula: THE RAPISTS OF PEPSI PALOMA,” Yap wrote in October.
Yap also mentioned Sotto in his post, saying, “About Sir Vic Sotto, I’m not sure whether to offer an apology for his name being mentioned in the film. The truth, after all, is unapologetic.”
He added that his intent was to present the facts without bias: “My role as a filmmaker isn’t to pass judgment or provoke—it’s to tell the story as it happened, with honesty and respect for the facts.”
The film’s teaser reignited discussions about the tragic life of Pepsi Paloma, one of the so-called “Softdrinks Beauties” of the 1980s, alongside Sarsi Emmanuelle and Coca Nicolas. Paloma’s death in 1985 remains a topic of speculation and controversy.
Sotto has yet to make a public statement, while Yap continues to defend his work as a means of revisiting history and confronting uncomfortable truths.
Veteran TV host and actor Vic Sotto is taking a stand against controversial filmmaker Darryl Yap, planning to file a formal case against him regarding his upcoming film, “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma”. The film’s trailer, released on January 1, sparked heated discussions online, particularly due to the inclusion of Sotto’s name, which his camp views as defamatory. Sotto’s legal counsel has confirmed that the complaint will be lodged at the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court on January 9.
The film tells the story of Pepsi Paloma, a Filipino-American actress who rose to fame in the 1980s as part of the “Softdrink Beauties” trio. Her life was cut short in 1985 at the age of 17, with her death officially ruled as a suicide. However, speculations about the circumstances of her death persist to this day. Yap’s film aims to shed light on Paloma’s experiences, but Sotto’s camp argues that the mention of his name in the trailer is malicious and damaging to his reputation.
Yap has defended his work, stating that his intention is to present the facts without bias and to tell Paloma’s story with honesty and respect. He claims that the film is not about maligning individuals, including Sotto, but rather about giving voice to Paloma’s tragic experiences. However, Sotto’s legal team remains adamant that the film’s trailer has caused harm to his reputation, and they are determined to protect his rights.
The controversy surrounding the film has generated mixed reactions from the public, with some supporting Yap’s bold approach to storytelling and others expressing concerns about reopening old wounds. The film’s cast, which includes Rhed Bustamante as Pepsi Paloma, Gina Alajar, Mon Confiado, and Andres Balano Jr., has also been drawn into the debate. As the release date of the film approaches, the tension between Sotto’s camp and Yap’s team is likely to escalate.
Sotto’s decision to take legal action against Yap is seen as a significant move, given the enduring public interest in the 1982 case involving Paloma’s allegations against prominent comedians, including Sotto, Joey de Leon, and Richie D’Horsie. The case was eventually withdrawn after Paloma received a public apology. However, the incident has continued to be a subject of speculation and debate over the years.
The film’s trailer has reignited discussions about Paloma’s life and death, with many taking to social media to share their thoughts and opinions. While some have praised Yap’s courage in tackling a sensitive topic, others have criticized the film’s approach, arguing that it is disrespectful and insensitive to Paloma’s family and legacy. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the legal case will proceed and what impact it will have on the film’s release.
Yap’s response to the criticism has been to reiterate his commitment to telling Paloma’s story with honesty and respect. He has stated that his role as a filmmaker is not to pass judgment or provoke, but rather to present the facts as they are. However, Sotto’s camp remains unconvinced, and the legal battle between the two is likely to be a long and contentious one.
The case has also sparked a wider conversation about the portrayal of masculinity in media and the responsibility of filmmakers to handle sensitive topics with care. While some have argued that Yap’s film is a necessary and timely exploration of a tragic event, others have questioned the film’s approach and motivations. As the debate continues, it is clear that the outcome of the legal case will have significant implications for the film industry and beyond.
In the midst of the controversy, it is worth remembering the tragic story of Pepsi Paloma, a young woman whose life was cut short in circumstances that remain shrouded in mystery. As the film’s release approaches, it is hoped that the debate surrounding the film will not overshadow the importance of Paloma’s story and the need for sensitivity and respect in its telling.
The legal case between Sotto and Yap is a complex and multifaceted one, with both sides presenting compelling arguments. As the case proceeds, it will be important to consider the implications of the film’s release and the potential impact on Sotto’s reputation and the wider community. Ultimately, the outcome of the case will depend on the court’s decision, but it is clear that the controversy surrounding the film will continue to be a major talking point in the days and weeks to come.
As the film industry waits with bated breath for the outcome of the legal case, it is worth reflecting on the importance of responsible storytelling and the need for sensitivity and respect in the portrayal of real-life events. While Yap’s film has sparked a necessary and timely debate, it is also important to consider the potential consequences of the film’s release and the impact on those involved. Only time will tell how the case will unfold, but one thing is certain – the controversy surrounding “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma” will continue to be a major talking point for months to come.
