Veteran politician and former Senate President Tito Sotto has firmly denied claims that his camp received a script of the controversial movie about Pepsi Paloma, titled TROPP (The Rape of Pepsi Paloma).
The issue stemmed from allegations made by Atty. Raymund Fortun, who claimed in a text message to The Inquirer that filmmaker Darryl Yap provided a copy of the movie’s script to a “Sotto sibling who is a senator.”
Fortun further alleged that there were follow-ups made, but no feedback was given.
Sotto’s response
In a Viber message to the same publication, Sotto clarified that neither he nor his brother, actor and comedian Vic Sotto, received the script.
“No. They gave a copy to Vic del Rosario, not Vic Sotto, and asked Viva [Films] if they could produce it. At that time, they were already shooting the movie. Vic Del Rosario himself called me and asked if I wanted a copy. I said I’m not interested, but if he will send a copy, I will forward it to my lawyer instead,” Sotto explained.
When asked if he was referring to the CEO of Viva Films, Sotto confirmed and added that Viva rejected the project.
“Yes, tinanggihan sila ng Viva (they were rejected by Viva). Vic [del Rosario] told me,” he stated, reiterating that neither he nor his brother Vic ever received the script.
Vic Sotto’s role in the controversy
Vic Sotto, a prominent actor, comedian, and long-time host of Eat Bulaga, was also drawn into the controversy surrounding the film. However, both Sotto brothers maintain that their involvement is nonexistent.
Vic Sotto is known for his comedic blockbuster films and his dedication to his family. He is married to actress Pauleen Luna, with whom he has two daughters, Tali and Thia.
The film, helmed by controversial director Darryl Yap, delves into the life and tragic story of Pepsi Paloma, a young actress who was allegedly involved in a high-profile rape case in the 1980s. The case implicated prominent personalities, including Tito Sotto, though he has long denied any wrongdoing.
Yap has also reportedly sought a gag order to prevent further public statements from the Sotto camp regarding the film.
Background on the Sottos
Tito Sotto has consistently denied allegations related to the Pepsi Paloma case over the years. His brother Vic Sotto, meanwhile, has stayed clear of political involvement, explaining in past interviews that he prefers to leave politics to Tito and his son, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto.
In an interview with The Philippine Star, Vic emphasized, “You don’t have to be in politics to serve the public.”
The controversy has reignited public interest in the Pepsi Paloma story and the Sotto brothers’ alleged connection to the case. With TROPP nearing release, discussions continue to swirl, but Tito and Vic Sotto remain steadfast in their denials of any involvement in the film’s production or the events it portrays.
Currently, both brothers are focusing on their respective endeavors, with Tito Sotto engaging in public service and Vic Sotto remaining a stalwart figure in Philippine entertainment.
Stay tuned for further developments on this unfolding story.