Actress Rhed Bustamante remains optimistic that her controversial film ‘The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma’ will eventually be shown to the public despite the legal issues that have delayed its release.
Rhed attended the red carpet premiere night of ‘Love, Ngo’ at SM Megamall Cinema 2 on June 2 in support of director Darryl Yap, who also helmed the biographical film based on the life of the late actress Pepsi Paloma.
Speaking to members of the media, Rhed admitted she was saddened by the uncertainty surrounding the film’s release.
“Siyempre po, sayang naman po ‘yung masterpiece na nagawa namin. Pero si Direk Darryl na po ang bahala po,” she said.
The actress, who portrays Pepsi Paloma in the film, acknowledged that the project has been surrounded by controversy since its announcement.
When asked about the issues linked to the movie, she briefly responded, “Nandu’n na po ‘yon, eh.”
Despite the challenges, Rhed said she remains proud of the work they accomplished as a team.
“Ako po, personally, as an actress, medyo nalungkot ako kasi siyempre, binigay po namin lahat, mga co-actors ko, ang best namin para mabuo ‘yung film na ‘yon. Pero we’re still hoping,” she shared.
The young actress also revealed that many people continue to express interest in the film and remain curious about Pepsi Paloma’s story.
Rhed likewise had positive words about working with Yap.
“Sa experience ko po working with Direk, sobrang comfortable and madali po talagang ka-work lahat ng kasama sa movie,” she said.
Meanwhile, Yap recently confirmed that the cyberlibel case filed against him by veteran television host Vic Sotto remains ongoing.
The case stemmed from the teaser trailer of ‘The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma’, which directly mentioned Sotto’s name. The Muntinlupa City Prosecutor’s Office later found probable cause to charge Yap with two counts of cyberlibel.
Despite the legal battle, the filmmaker remains determined to have the film released.
“I want to show my film to the Filipino people. I don’t think I’ll be persuaded to keep it hidden. Hindi ko alam kung anong magiging terms if ever my ganyan (settlement). Basta gusto kong maipalabas ang pelikula namin,” Yap said.
While awaiting developments regarding the controversial project, Rhed joined fellow celebrities in supporting Yap’s latest directorial offering, ‘Love, Ngo’, starring Jerald Napoles.
The comedy film received warm reactions during its premiere screening, with viewers praising its humor, emotional moments, and performances from the cast, particularly Jerald Napoles and veteran actress Gina Alajar.
