Veteran television host-actor Vic Sotto yesterday filed a cyber-libel complaint against filmmaker Darryl Yap, following the release of a teaser for the latter’s upcoming movie, “The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma.”
Sotto, accompanied by his wife, actress and TV host Pauleen Luna, filed a formal complaint at the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court.
“Many have been asking for my reaction since this issue came up. I have kept my silence. I have not answered questions. I guess this (filing of cyber-libel case) is it. This is my reaction,” Sotto told reporters outside the courthouse.
The comedian said his decision to file charges was a matter of principle.
“This is not some personal vendetta. I just trust in the justice system. I will fight irresponsible people, especially those on social media,” Sotto added.
In a statement sent to ABS-CBN News, Yap remained firm that his film was based on documented events.
“We will respond to the complaint as soon as it reaches us. As for me, all the materials I have released or will release are documented—I am not fabricating anything to malign,” Yap said.
“There is nothing personal. I am simply presenting what happened in the past as seen in publications from the 1980s. That has already been made public.”
“I did not say that Vic Sotto is the one referred to by the title of the movie—they were the ones who said that. It is important for them to watch the entire film first. Thank you,” the filmmaker added.
Paloma was found dead in her apartment in 1985, with authorities ruling it a suicide. Her case, however, has been marked by allegations of sexual assault and coercion.
