Sotto, Yap face off in court over ‘Pepsi Paloma’

MANILA, Philippines — Actor and television host Vic Sotto and director Darryl Yap appeared before a Muntinlupa court yesterday for a hearing on Sotto’s petition for a writ of habeas data against Yap’s upcoming film, “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma.”

Sotto, who arrived at the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 205 with his wife Pauleen Luna, declined to comment when approached by reporters.

Yap, who is facing 19 counts of cyber libel filed by Sotto in connection with the film, also refused to comment, citing the gag order the court issued earlier.

In his petition, Sotto asked the court to order Yap to remove and take down all promotional materials, teaser videos and other content related to the film that mentions Sotto’s personal information. 

He also asked that Yap be prohibited from further disseminating any related materials across all platforms.  

The court barred both Sotto and Yap from making public statements – a restriction that Sotto reiterated when he left the courthouse, telling reporters, “I am not allowed to speak.”  

Despite the legal proceedings, Yap confirmed that the film remains in production.

“I’m OK. I’m still finishing the movie,” he said as he left the courthouse. 

When asked if the public would be able to see the film, he responded, “They should.”