In a defiant stance, Tito Sotto, alongside Vic and Joey (TVJ), the well-known host trio, dismissed the recent trademark renewal obtained by the Jalosjo family for “Eat Bulaga,” a name they coined and had popularized over four decades.
“Magsawa sila sa trademark basta amin ang copyright,” asserted Tito Sotto, the former Senate President.
Over the weekend, the Jalosjos-owned Television and Production Exponents proudly announced the successful renewal of the “Eat Bulaga” trademark registration, even amidst the ongoing legal dispute with TVJ.
The Jalosjos-owned Television and Production Exponents announced on Saturday that it has . successfully renewed the trademark registration of the name “Eat Bulaga” for another 10 years to 2033 amid the ongoing legal dispute with TVJ.
TVJ filed a copyright infringement and unfair competition case against TAPE and GMA Network for airing replays of the original Eat Bulaga episodes and using segments created by the original team.
A copyright safeguards creators’ work from unauthorized copying or reproduction, whereas a trademark protects the distinct identification of a brand or product, including its logo, through official registration.
TAPE has continued to air a noontime show on GMA 7 under “Eat Bulaga” even after TVJ and their co-hosts and creative team resigned from the Jalosjos firm.
TVJ moved to TV 5 and co-produced a lunchtime variety show, temporarily named “E.A.T.,” as they pursue legal action to regain control over their creation.