The Court of Appeals (CA) has upheld the exclusive rights of Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon (TVJ) to the ‘Eat Bulaga’ trademark, marking another legal victory for the iconic trio in their battle against TAPE Inc. and GMA Network.
The CA’s 9th Division dismissed separate petitions filed by TAPE Inc. and GMA Network, affirming a January 2024 ruling by the Marikina Regional Trial Court (RTC) that granted TVJ ownership of the ‘Eat Bulaga’ name. The CA also declared the cancellation of TAPE’s trademark registrations for ‘Eat Bulaga’, its logos, and related intellectual property.
In its decision, the CA noted the long-standing association of TVJ with ‘Eat Bulaga’, a noontime show they hosted for 44 years, which became a household name in the Philippines.
The decision, penned by Associate Justice Zenaida Galapate-Laguilles, stated: “Tito, Vic, and Joey cannot be faulted for their unceasing affiliation with the Eat Bulaga brand. They have undoubtedly acquired and established goodwill and favorable reputation as longtime hosts of the show… TVJ have become synonymous with Eat Bulaga in the eyes and subconsciousness of the general viewing public.”
The ruling also cited violations committed by TAPE Inc. and GMA Network, including the unauthorized use of the ‘Eat Bulaga’ name, logos, and jingle, as well as the broadcasting of old episodes without TVJ’s consent.
The legal battle began after TVJ’s departure from TAPE Inc. in June 2023, citing creative and operational differences. The trio later filed copyright infringement and unfair competition cases against TAPE Inc. and GMA Network.
In January 2024, the Marikina RTC ruled in favor of TVJ, granting them exclusive rights to the ‘Eat Bulaga’ trademark and barring TAPE Inc. and GMA Network from using the name or its related intellectual property. TAPE Inc. and GMA Network contested the ruling, leading to the recent CA decision.
During a live episode of ‘Eat Bulaga’ on TV5, Vic Sotto shared the good news with their fans.
“Ngayon, at exactly 4:23 ng hapon, kanina-kanina lang, mainit-init pa, e, nakatanggap si Tito Sen ng email at ito ay may kinalaman sa decision ng korte tungkol sa Eat Bulaga! Wherefore, justice is hereby rendered in favor of the plaintiffs against the defendants. Ang plaintiffs po ay Tito, Vic, Joey, kasama si Jeny at Direk Poochie.”
Tito Sotto read the dispositive portion of the decision, which permanently enjoins TAPE and GMA from:
- Using the Eat Bulaga trademark, logos, or jingle in any capacity.
- Broadcasting or replaying episodes of Eat Bulaga aired prior to May 31, 2023.
- Vic Sotto concluded with excitement, saying:
“Moreover, defendants… marami pang binabanggit at lahat in favor sa atin.”
With this significant legal victory, TVJ solidifies their claim over the legacy of ‘Eat Bulaga’, which now airs on TV5. The trio remains focused on creating fresh content while preserving the essence of the show that has brought joy to Filipino households for decades.
For their loyal “Dabarkads,” this ruling signifies a new chapter in the iconic program’s history under its rightful stewards.
