Trademark Tussle after Tito Sotto announced they will use "EAT BULAGA" the same name for their future TV5 program

 

Photo: Eat Bulaga / Tape Inc. /TVJ 

Vicente Sotto III, also known as Tito of the legendary Filipino comedy trio TVJ (Tito, Vic, and Joey), surprised fans and industry insiders yesterday by revealing that their new show with TV5 would be titled "Eat Bulaga." The announcement generated a buzz among fans and insiders because the name and theme song of the long-running noontime show in the Philippines belongs to the popular program of the same name.

Tito Sotto asserted with the assurance that they have legal ownership of the title and the theme music. This action sparked debates about trademark problems and intellectual property rights in the local entertainment sector. The news was made without any comment from TAPE Inc., the production firm that created the first season of "Eat Bulaga," which increased rumors and interest.

Notably, since its debut in 1979, "Eat Bulaga" has been an institution of Philippine television. The program has gained a sizable fan base over the years and is renowned for its unique mashup of comedic sketches, games, talent challenges, and inspirational stories. Its popularity can be due to the charisma and chemistry of its hosts, which also includes a great cast of performers like Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey De Leon.

Another member of TVJ, Joey De Leon, experienced a moment of emotion when Susan Co of Puregold, one of the program's longtime sponsors and advertisers, voiced worry about the circumstance. Puregold has long been a significant supporter of "Eat Bulaga" and has maintained a tight relationship with TVJ. De Leon's visceral reaction demonstrates the close connection between the program and its sponsors.

The decision of Tito Sotto and TVJ to adopt the "Eat Bulaga" name for their new TV5 program has sparked debate over the trademark and licensing agreements pertaining to the intellectual property connected to the original program. It's unclear how TAPE Inc. will respond to the trademark dispute or whether they'll take legal action to defend their rights.

The news of a new show with the working title "Eat Bulaga" has unquestionably sparked interest and excitement among fans, who are eagerly awaiting more details and updates. It's unclear how this trademark battle will play out and whether the first "Eat Bulaga" will continue to be regarded as iconic or if TV5 will usher in a new era of Philippine television.

For the time being, viewers and business experts alike are eagerly anticipating TAPE Inc.'s comment to clarify the trademark concerns and perhaps address the future of the venerable and adored program "Eat Bulaga."