Vic Sotto to File Legal Complaint Against Darryl Yap

by in Categories Entertainment

Veteran actor and television host Vic Sotto is set to take legal action against filmmaker Darryl Yap concerning the upcoming film, “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma.” The controversy erupted following the release of the film’s teaser on January 1, 2025, which included references to Sotto and his alleged involvement in the highly publicized 1982 rape case of the late actress Pepsi Paloma.

Born Delia Dueñas Smith, Pepsi Paloma was a prominent figure in the 1980s, gaining fame as one of the “Softdrink Beauties.” At the age of 15, she accused comedians Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon, and Richie D’Horsie of drugging and raping her in a room at the Sulô Hotel in Quezon City. The case sparked widespread media attention, with the accused eventually issuing a public apology. Paloma later withdrew the charges after signing an Affidavit of Desistance, allegedly under duress. Tragically, she was found dead in 1985, in what authorities ruled as suicide, though doubts about possible foul play linger to this day.

Darryl Yap’s film seeks to revisit this controversial chapter in Philippine showbiz history. The teaser has ignited a heated debate, drawing mixed reactions from the public. Supporters praise the filmmaker for shedding light on an unresolved and sensitive issue, while critics question the ethics of revisiting a traumatic event that directly implicates living individuals. Yap has maintained that the film is centered on Paloma’s story and does not aim to defame anyone.

In response to the teaser, Sotto and his legal counsel are preparing to file a formal complaint at the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court on January 9, 2025. While specific details of the complaint remain under wraps, it is widely expected to tackle concerns over defamation and the potential misrepresentation of events in the film.

The movie stars Rhed Bustamante as Pepsi Paloma, alongside Gina Alajar and Mon Confiado, is slated for a February 2025 release. As anticipation builds, the controversy grows, reflecting the deep-seated sensitivities surrounding the Pepsi Paloma case.

This case brings to the forefront the delicate balance between creative expression and the ethical responsibilities of filmmakers when depicting real-life events. It raises questions about the long-term consequences of reexamining historical incidents involving unresolved issues and living individuals.

Leave a Comment