Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon—collectively known as TVJ—started 2025 on a celebratory note as the Court of Appeals (CA) upheld their ownership of the iconic Eat Bulaga trademark. The comedy trio also marked the New Year by unveiling a newly renovated studio for the long-running noontime show.
Trademark Victory
The CA’s ninth division dismissed an appeal by Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE) in its December 13, 2024, decision, affirming the Marikina City Regional Trial Court’s January 2024 ruling in favor of TVJ.
According to the CA, the intellectual property rights of creators, including Tito, Vic, Joey, and Jeny de Leon, must be safeguarded. The trio had filed the trademark case against TAPE in January 2023.
Atty. Buko Dela Cruz, TVJ’s legal counsel, expressed gratitude for the decision:
“Good news sa pagpasok ng bagong taon! Dinismiss ng Court of Appeals ang apela ng TAPE Inc tungkol sa ‘Eat Bulaga,’” he shared on Facebook, celebrating the victory.
New Studio, New Segments
To greet fans in the New Year, TVJ and their co-hosts showcased Eat Bulaga’s newly renovated studio on January 1. The revamped space includes:
- Wider host areas to better accommodate segments
- A bigger main stage for performances and activities
Vic Sotto described the studio as a “new home” designed for a better viewing experience:
“Welcome to our new home, same address pero newly renovated para mas komportable at mas malaki, para sa mas maayos na tanghalian na ating pagsasaluhan,” he said.
In the same episode, the hosts introduced a fresh segment, “The Clones,” signaling exciting updates for the program.
What’s Next for TAPE?
As of this writing, TAPE has not issued a statement regarding the CA ruling.
TVJ’s triumph underscores their enduring influence in Philippine entertainment, promising a bright future for Eat Bulaga under their leadership.