Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon made an special announcement as they have won the legal battle against the Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE) over the trademark ownership of the "Eat Bulaga" name.
TVJ happily announce on their Facebook page earlier today, January 5, 2024, that they won the copyright infringement and unfair competition cases against TAPE, GMA-7.
TVJ announced that they emerged victorious over the trademark battle as the Marikina court dismissed TAPE’s claims of copyright infringement and unfair competition.
The Marikina Regional Trial Court ruled in favor of the hosting trio of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon, collectively known as TVJ, giving them the trademark ownership of “Eat Bulaga” in a case they had filed against Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE).
The court’s ruling states that TAPE Inc. and GMA Network are not entitled to use the trademark, logo or theme song of “Eat Bulaga! “as well as to air episodes without proper permission and authorization.
“Wherefore, judgment is hereby rendered in favor of the plaintiffs (which include TVJ) against the defendants (TAPE and GMA Network),” Sotto read.The court in Marikina also declared that the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) should cancel TAPE’s trademarks for “Eat Bulaga!” and “EB” on all records including its website.
“Moreover, defendants… marami pang binabanggit at lahat in favor sa atin,” affirmed Tito.
Vic summarized the announcement by simply declaring their triumph, “Sa madaling salita… nanalo po tayo,” said Vic as he held back his tears amid the announcement.
“Patunay ito na sinasabi na tayo ang may-ari ng ‘Eat Bulaga,'” Tito said.
"Sa madaling salita, atin talaga ang Eat Bulaga," Vic said before ushering the production team to join them on the stage and sing the show's iconic theme song
The Facebook live concluded with TVJ and the production staff rejoicing over the “Eat Bulaga!” theme song.
The trio extended their gratitude to the Marikina Regional Trial Court, their lawyers, the production staff, family and friends, and to the Lord.
Tito said “Maraming salamat sa iyong pagtangkilik. Maraming salamat sa dasal, at unang-una sa lahat sa Panginoong Diyos. Thank you very much, Lord God.”
