MTRCB Issues Statement on Controversial Film ‘Pepsi Paloma’

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has issued an official statement regarding the film The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma, directed by Darryl Yap. This announcement comes amidst growing discussions surrounding the film’s teaser, which explicitly names comedian Vic Sotto as an alleged perpetrator in the controversial case involving the late actress Pepsi Paloma.

The teaser, released on January 1, 2025, features a scene where a character, played by Gina Alajar, confronts Pepsi Paloma, portrayed by Rhed Bustamante. The scene asks if Vic Sotto was involved in the crime, to which Paloma’s character responds affirmatively. This depiction has led to significant backlash from Sotto’s camp, culminating in legal action against Yap.

On January 9, 2025, Vic Sotto filed 19 counts of cyber libel against Darryl Yap at the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court. Sotto is seeking ₱35 million in damages, arguing that the teaser contains malicious and defamatory statements that have harmed his reputation. He emphasized that no one from the film’s production consulted him or sought his consent regarding the use of his name in the film.

In response to the lawsuit, the court issued a writ of habeas data, ordering Yap to cease the distribution of the teaser and any related promotional materials mentioning Sotto. Yap has been directed to remove all such content from social media platforms and must submit a response to the court within five days.

Darryl Yap addressed the legal actions in a statement, asserting that all materials he has released are documented and not intended to defame anyone. He stated, “Wala pong personalan, naglalahad lamang po ako ng nangyari sa nakaraan na makikita sa mga nailathala noong 1980s. Naisapubliko naman po iyon.” Yap also noted that the teaser’s caption included information that the rape case filed by Pepsi Paloma against Sotto was eventually withdrawn.

The controversy has sparked widespread discussion, with some commentators suggesting that explicitly mentioning Sotto’s name in the teaser was a strategic move to attract attention. Journalist Cristy Fermin referred to the scene as “clickbait” in an episode of her vlog, suggesting it was designed to garner viewer interest.

Amid speculations about potential biases due to familial connections—Lala Sotto, Vic Sotto’s niece, serves as the MTRCB Chairperson—the MTRCB released an official statement posted by netizens on Facebook. The board outlined the requirements for the film’s review process, emphasizing that they consider whether a film has any pending legal cases before proceeding with its evaluation.

As the situation unfolds, the film’s release remains uncertain, pending the resolution of the legal disputes and the MTRCB’s review process. The case highlights the delicate balance between creative expression, legal considerations, and the responsibilities of media regulatory bodies in the Philippines.