Vic Sotto and controversial film director Darryl Yap appeared at the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 205 on Friday morning for the hearing of Sotto’s petition for a writ of habeas data against Yap’s upcoming film, The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma.
Sotto, accompanied by his wife, Pauleen Luna, declined to comment when asked about the case. “Sorry ha, hindi puwede magsalita (Sorry, I cannot speak about it),” he said.
Yap also refrained from making statements, telling reporters, “I’m not really a morning person and I’m not allowed to say anything.”
In his petition, Sotto requested the court to compel Yap to remove all promotional materials, teaser videos, and any content related to the film that includes Sotto’s personal information. He also sought to prohibit Yap from further disseminating related materials across all platforms.
Earlier, Sotto’s lawyer, Atty. Enrique Dela Cruz, confirmed that the court temporarily issued a writ of habeas data, directing Yap to take down the contested content. However, the court clarified that the issuance of the writ is procedural and does not constitute the granting of relief sought in the petition.
Meanwhile, Yap is facing 19 counts of cyberlibel filed by Sotto, also in connection with the film. The Muntinlupa court has issued a gag order regarding the case, barring parties from making public comments.
The court also denied Yap’s motion to consolidate the multiple cases filed by Sotto.
The legal battle continues as both sides prepare for further proceedings.