Veteran showbiz columnist Cristy Fermin did not hold back her criticism of director Darryl Yap, calling him “ILUSYUNADO, MAPAG-IMBENTO NG KUWENTO” and accusing him of fabricating stories about the controversial teaser for his upcoming film “Pepsi Paloma.” Fermin labeled the teaser as a mere “clickbait” tactic, intended to stir interest and attract viewers.
Fermin revealed that Yap once sought her advice about having Viva Films, owned by Vic Del Rosario, produce the movie. However, she warned him that Del Rosario would likely reject the project out of respect for Tito, Vic, and Joey (TVJ), with whom he has longstanding ties.
The columnist also questioned Yap’s knowledge of the actual events surrounding Pepsi Paloma’s story, pointing out that he may not have been born when the events allegedly occurred. Fermin, alongside her co-hosts Romel Chika and Wendell Alvarez, referred to a past interview with another former soft drink beauty, Coca Nicolas. In that interview, Nicolas claimed the controversial Pepsi Paloma story was fabricated by manager Rey De La Cruz to gain publicity and boost Paloma’s career. She added that the story has since been regarded as an “urban legend.”
Fermin further speculated that Yap’s motives for creating the film might be politically driven, aiming to tarnish the reputations of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey De Leon. She mentioned that Tito Sotto may be planning to run in the upcoming elections, while Vic Sotto is enjoying the success of his latest film, The Kingdom. Some netizens and Pasig residents have also suggested that the film could be an attempt to damage the image of Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto, Vic’s son, ahead of a potential rivalry with the influential and wealthy Eusebio family.
In her closing remarks, Fermin emphasized the importance of respect, especially toward industry icons like Tito, Vic, and Joey. She reminded Yap that the allegations surrounding the Pepsi Paloma case have never been proven, urging him to tread carefully and avoid tarnishing the names of respected figures in the entertainment industry.
This controversy has reignited debates about the ethics of using historical and controversial narratives for entertainment purposes, particularly when they involve public figures and unresolved allegations.