MANILA – Filmmaker Darryl Yap is facing two cyberlibel charges at the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court (RTC) over the controversial teaser of his film, The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma (TROPP).
The case arises from a 19-count cyberlibel complaint filed by veteran TV host-actor Vic Sotto in January 2025, alleging that Yap’s teaser falsely implicated him in the alleged rape of Pepsi Paloma, a late 1980s starlet. Sotto is seeking ₱35 million in damages.
Legal Basis for Charges
According to Assistant City Prosecutor Elvin Keith Barrios, Yap is being charged under Articles 353 and 355 of the Revised Penal Code for libel, in connection with the Cybercrime Prevention Act. The court found probable cause, stating that Yap “willfully and maliciously” created and shared content tarnishing Sotto’s reputation.
The film teaser featured an exchange between Gina Alajar, playing Charito Solis, and Rhed Bustamante as Pepsi Paloma, which allegedly suggested that Sotto was involved in Paloma’s rape and possible death.
Court Proceedings and Legal Actions
- The Muntinlupa RTC will raffle the case to a specific branch.
- Yap’s cyberlibel charge carries a penalty of up to six years in prison per count, with a ₱10,000 bail recommendation for each charge.
- Prior to this, Sotto filed a habeas data petition, partially granted by the Muntinlupa RTC, barring Yap from using Sotto’s name or likeness in his film or promotional materials.
- Yap sought to consolidate the habeas data case and cyberlibel complaint, but the court denied it, ruling that the cases are “distinct in nature.”
- A gag order has been issued, preventing both parties from discussing case details publicly.
As legal battles unfold, Yap has yet to issue an official statement regarding the charges.