Filmmaker Darryl Yap expressed gratitude after a court allowed the release of his film The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma, despite legal challenges. Yap announced that he would now submit the film for review by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).
The Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 205 partially granted a petition filed by actor Vic Sotto for a writ of habeas data, ordering Yap to remove a teaser that mentioned Sotto as an alleged rapist of the late Pepsi Paloma.
However, the court ruled that Yap could continue with the production and release of the film, as it is based on Paloma’s life story. The court emphasized that the project had secured consent from Paloma’s family, used public records as sources, and was protected under artistic freedom and public interest.
Director’s Reaction
Yap refrained from commenting on the legal aspects of the case due to a gag order but shared his gratitude through a Facebook post on Jan. 27.
“Hindi pa rin po ako maaaring magbigay ng tuwirang pahayag sa usaping legal ngunit nais ko pong ipaabot ang aking pasasalamat sa mga nagpapahayag ng kanilang suporta,” Yap wrote.
He described the court’s decision as a significant milestone and confirmed that the next step would be submitting the film for MTRCB review. Yap assured compliance with the regulatory board’s standards, regardless of the scrutiny involved.
Focus on Local Release
Yap also acknowledged international interest in distributing the film but stated that his priority remains its release in the Philippines.
Legal Battles Continue
In addition to the writ of habeas data, Sotto has filed 19 counts of cyber libel against Yap. The ongoing legal conflict stems from the film’s sensitive subject matter and references to allegations against Sotto.
Despite these challenges, Yap remains committed to the project, which he views as an important artistic endeavor highlighting Pepsi Paloma’s life story.