Director Darryl Yap has addressed the cyberlibel charges filed against him by veteran actor Vic Sotto in connection with a teaser for Yap’s upcoming film about the late actress Pepsi Paloma. The teaser allegedly implicated Sotto in a rape case, which has sparked controversy.
In his statement, Yap welcomed the complaint and said his legal team would respond promptly once the charges are formally served.
“Lahat po ng materyal na aking inilabas o ilalabas ay nakadokumento—hindi ko po gawa-gawa para makapanira,” Yap stated, emphasizing that his film is based on events and publications from the 1980s.
Clarifications on the Teaser
Yap argued that the teaser explicitly mentioned that the rape case filed by Paloma against Sotto was withdrawn. He reiterated that his intention was not personal but focused on recounting historical events.
“Malaya naman po ang kahit na sino magsampa ng kaso—gaya po ng naisampang rape case noon ni Pepsi Paloma laban sa kanya na siya pong natatanging laman ng teaser,” he said, adding, “Mahalagang mapanood muna nila ang buong pelikula.”
Court Orders Against Yap
The Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 205 has issued a temporary writ of habeas data, prohibiting Yap and his team from further distributing promotional materials related to the film. The court also ordered the removal of all previously posted teasers and related content on social media.
Yap has been instructed to appear at a summary hearing for the writ of habeas data on January 15, 2025.
Sotto’s Reaction
Sotto revealed in an interview that no one from the production team consulted him regarding the film. He expressed his intention to take legal action to protect his name and reputation.