Legit Dabarkads: IPO Said Tito, Vic, and Joey Are The Legit Owners of ‘Eat Bulaga’ Trademark

Is it safe to announce they are the legit owners of “Eat Bulaga?” 

Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPO) ruled that veteran television hosts Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon own the trademark for “Eat Bulaga.” Meanwhile, IPO canceled the certificate of registration that allows Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE) to use the mark, CNN reported.

The decision was made on Monday, Dec. 4. On Tuesday, Dec. 5, the decision has been revealed. 

What Does it Mean?

IPO granted the petition filed by the three hosts known as “TVJ” (Tito, Vic, and Joey) to cancel the certificate of registration issued to TAPE in 2013. Thus, TVJ has full rights to use the title “Eat Bulaga!”

Since the request was granted, what is the fate of GMA’s “Eat Bulaga” hosted by Paolo Contis along with Mavy and Cassy Legaspi?

Eat Bulaga Ownership Drama

Filipinos witnessed the resignation of the original members of “Eat Bulaga.” Seeing the hosts you’ve been watching for decades announcing their departures was heart-wrenching. One of Sottos revealed the reason for their resignation, citing mistrust of the new management.

Aired live, he confirmed the new management led by Zamboanga del Norte 1st District Romeo Jalosjos Jr. — the guy who replaced Tony Tuviera as chief executive officer and president — had been planning to replace all the old hosts, including TVJ.

TVJ demands the discontinuation of top-rating segments like “Juan for All, All for Juan,” and “Bawal Judgmental.” 

“After all these years, 44 years, hindi naman sila nakikialam sa amin (they are not getting involved), it was Tony Tuviera who was coordinating with us the whole time… Lahat ng ginagawa namin doon kami-kami ‘yun, wala naman silang (Everything that we did were only done by us, they do not have) contribution,” Sotto said. “You should’ve left it alone, it was doing well”

Fortunately, Dabarkads found a new home shortly — TV5. TVJ signed an agreement with Mediaquest Group. 

After the IPO’s grant, TVJ remained firm on keeping the title “Eat Bulaga!” for their new show with TV5. Currently, the show is called “E.A.T.”