Filmmaker and producer Darryl Yap addressed the 19 counts of cyber libel complaints filed against him by veteran actor and TV host Vic Sotto through a social media post.
The controversy stems from Yap’s movie The R*pist of Pepsi Paloma where Sotto’s name is mentioned in connection with the controversial case. The teaser, shared on Yap’s social media platforms, features Pepsi Paloma, played by Rhed Bustamante, alleging rape during a scene.
In his response, Yap expressed his thoughts in poetic form, defending his work and reiterating his belief in the right to truth and justice:
“Kalayaan ng kahit sino ang magsampa ng reklamo,
Walang may monopolyo sa katarungan,
Lalo na sa katotohanan.”
Yap argued that everyone is entitled to seek clarity and justice:
“Malaya ang sinuman na magsampa ng reklamo,
Para mas maging malinaw ang totoo.
Dahil sa huli, Katotohanan lang ang depensa
Sa lahat ng Katanungan.”
In defense of his film, Yap referenced Paloma’s story:
“Hindi ba napatunayan ang akusasyon ni Pepsi?
Ang sagot ay nasa litrato.
Pero NAGSAMPA BA NG KASONG RAPE SI PEPSI LABAN KAY VIC SOTTO?
Ang sagot rin ay nasa litrato.
Nagsinungaling ba ang teaser?
Ang sagot ay wala sa litrato.”
Yap’s statements have further fueled public discourse around the film and its controversial portrayal of Pepsi Paloma’s case. The filmmaker has yet to reveal the full extent of his plans regarding the film’s release as the legal proceedings begin.