Vic Sotto Files Charges Against Darryl Yap Over Pepsi Paloma Movie
VIC SOTTO – The comedian has filed 19 counts of cyber libel against director Darryl Yap in the Muntinlupa City Regional Trial Court, seeking ₱35 million in damages over his inclusion in Yap’s film The Rap*sts of Pepsi Paloma.
In the controversial teaser, Paloma’s character, portrayed by Rhed Bustamante, is asked by actress Gina Alajar (playing Charito Solis) whether she was rap*d by Sotto. Paloma’s loud response is “Yes!” The scene references the real-life case of Pepsi Paloma, a rising starlet who, at the age of 14, was allegedly rap*d in 1982 by three prominent figures in showbiz. While Paloma’s death was ruled a suicide three years later, the accusations surrounding the rap* and the identities of those involved have remained controversial for decades.
In his complaint, Sotto accuses Yap of deliberately posting malicious and defamatory statements on social media, particularly on Yap’s Facebook pages. Sotto claims these posts have damaged his reputation, causing public ridicule and emotional distress. He asserts that Yap, in his desire for attention and financial gain, irresponsibly accused him of being a rap*st. Sotto emphasized that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it should never infringe upon another person’s reputation.
Sotto is seeking ₱20 million in moral damages for the emotional and psychological toll caused by the allegations, as well as ₱15 million in exemplary damages to deter similar actions in the future. The case excludes claims for potential loss of income from endorsement contracts negatively impacted by Yap’s posts.
Previously, the controversial director responded to the mention of Vic Sotto in the trailer of his movie. Yap questioned whether an apology was needed, stating that the truth does not require an apology. He believes public figures involved in such stories must accept that they will eventually be revealed. Yap sees his role as not one of judgment or controversy, but as someone who tells the story honestly, respectfully, and based on the facts.