Tito Sotto responded warmly to Eraserheads frontman Ely Buendia’s recent comment, calling him and his fellow veteran television hosts, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon, his “heroes.”
On Monday, Ely addressed the persistent rumor linking their song to the controversial Pepsi Paloma case involving the Eat Bulaga hosts.
At a press conference for the band’s upcoming concert documentary, Eraserheads: Combo on the Run, the singer of “Ang Huling El Bimbo” tackled what he described as the most absurd rumor about the track.
“Let’s clear this up: it’s ‘Spoliarium,’ right? It’s not about TVJ. It’s not about Vic Sotto and the ‘rape’ incident. It’s a tragic situation, and I was heartbroken when it surfaced because I was a huge fan,” Ely stated.
He went on to refer to the comedy trio as his “heroes,” emphasizing his respect for them.
“They were my heroes, and I wouldn’t dream of writing a song that would tarnish my heroes. So I think that is the most ridiculous claim. I will maintain, until today, that it’s not about them and it’s not about Pepsi [Paloma],” he added.
In reaction, Tito expressed gratitude and admiration for Ely and his band’s contribution to music.
“We love his music. We supported his music and their group before,” Tito said.
“Thank you so much. They are the new heroes of the entertainment industry, especially the music industry,” he continued.
When told that the TVJ trio is considered legends, he humbly replied, “The feeling is mutual,” referring to Eraserheads.
He also shared that hosting Eat Bulaga! over the past three years has been a therapeutic experience, especially after winning the legal battle for the show’s ownership.
“We definitely enjoy the therapy of Eat Bulaga! We’re enjoying it and very fortunate to win all the cases that we filed, owning the program,” he said.
Even during his time away from politics, Tito has remained connected with his former Senate colleagues.
“I’m always in touch with my colleagues in the Senate. In fact, the senators, especially those I used to work with, always have stories to share with me,” he shared.
In addition to his recent remarks, Tito is again running for a senatorial position in the upcoming May 12 elections, aiming to pursue key legislative priorities.
On the other hand, he expressed his hopes that his 24 years of service in the Senate would be remembered by the public.
“I hope they haven’t forgotten not only my name; I hope they would not forget what I have done during my 24 years in the Senate,” Tito stated.