TAPE Inc. Obtains 10-Year Renewal of the "Eat Bulaga" Trademark Despite Ongoing Legal Battle

 

Photo: Screengrab from GMA Network YouTube Channel

The production firm behind the popular noontime program "Eat Bulaga," TAPE Inc., has succeeded in securing a 10-year extension of the trademark for the show. The certification of renewal has been issued by the Philippine Intellectual Property Office, confirming TAPE Inc.'s ownership of the "Eat Bulaga" trademark.

The trademark registration was renewed formally on June 14, 2023, and it will be valid until June 14, 2033. According to the certificate distributed to the media on Saturday, August 5, TAPE Inc. has been recognized as the legitimate registrant.

Image: TAPE Inc.

High-ranking TAPE Inc. executive Bullet Jalosjos revealed the information on his Instagram Stories, expressing appreciation and perhaps relief with the comment "May awa ang Diyos," along with folded hands emojis.

The trademark renewal, however, takes place in the midst of an ongoing legal battle between TAPE Inc. and TVJ, the trio of comedians who founded "Eat Bulaga" in the first place: Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon. Since June, the group has been suing TAPE Inc. and GMA Network for copyright infringement and unfair competition.

TVJ filed a petition for the issuance of a preliminary injunction as part of their legal action in an effort to prevent TAPE and GMA Network from using the name, logo, and other components of the new "Eat Bulaga" while the copyright infringement and unfair competition case is still being litigated.

The result of this legal dispute could have major implications for all parties concerned and could influence the future of the historic "Eat Bulaga" program. Stakeholders and fans alike are eagerly awaiting further developments and court rulings as the case progresses.

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References/Credits: TAPE Inc. gets 10-year renewal of ‘Eat Bulaga’ trademark from Intellectual Property Office