Director Darryl Yap recently sparked controversy after unveiling the official poster for his upcoming film, “Pepsi Paloma.” The film, which delves into the life and tragic death of former actress and sexy star Pepsi Paloma, has drawn significant attention, particularly due to its contentious title and subject matter.
On Saturday, January 11, Yap shared the poster on his social media platforms, accompanied by the caption, “Ang Balita. Ang Intriga. Ang Kontrobersya. Ang Hubad na Katotohanan.” The announcement comes amid ongoing legal issues, as Yap faces 19 counts of cyber libel filed by actor and TV host Vic Sotto.
Clarifications from Yap
In a separate post, Yap addressed questions from netizens about the film, particularly regarding its backers and timing. He denied speculation that Senator Imee Marcos or the Jalosjos family supported the project, revealing that even Marcos had advised him against pursuing the film.
Yap also explained the reasoning behind the film’s 2025 release date, stating, “Kaya 2025 ilalabas dahil 40th Death Anniversary ni Pepsi Paloma. Hindi dahil Eleksyon.” This statement was made to counter accusations that the film’s timing was politically motivated.
The director emphasized the significance of Pepsi Paloma’s story to the residents of Olongapo, where the actress originated. “Hindi nyo maiintindihan kasi ‘di naman kayo taga-Olongapo, hindi kayo Artist na Taga-Olongapo. May lugar sa amin na ang tawag ay Pepsi. May sariling hand sign para alam ng jeep na doon ka bababa! Gano’n kahalaga,” he shared.
Yap asserted that his motivation stems from the pursuit of truth. “Mali ang tanong na sino ang nasa likod ko, bakit ako matapang, kundi ano. Walang iba kundi ang buong katotohanan,” he declared.
Vic Sotto’s Cyberlibel Case
The film’s teaser, which mentioned Vic Sotto’s name, prompted the actor to file 19 counts of cyber libel against Yap. The cases were filed on Thursday, January 9, before the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court (RTC), as confirmed by Sotto’s legal counsel, Atty. Enrique Dela Cruz.
Sotto has yet to publicly address the allegations made in the film’s teaser, but the legal action underscores the sensitive nature of the case.
Yap’s Legal Team Responds
Darryl Yap’s legal counsel, Atty. Raymond Fortun defended his client by revealing that a copy of the film’s script had been sent to Sotto before the teaser’s release. Fortun explained that the script was shared with Sotto to allow him to provide comments or raise concerns.
“The purpose was really for them to give comments dun sa script, so wala naman po. Ilang beses po na nag-follow-up si Direk Darryl na tungkol dun until finally na shoot na lahat ng mga scenes, so hindi na namin kasalanan ‘yun,” Fortun stated during an interview.
Public and Industry Reactions
The announcement of The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma has ignited debates online, with supporters lauding Yap for addressing a controversial yet important issue, while critics question the ethical implications of the film’s narrative and title.
As the legal battle unfolds, all eyes remain on Yap and Sotto, as their confrontation over the film raises questions about creative freedom, accountability, and the boundaries of storytelling in Philippine cinema.