Let me regale you with the triumphant return of the original hosts of Eat Bulaga on TV5, as they belted out their iconic theme song without any muting. Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon, reunited with the original gang, kicked off their noontime show E.A.T. with the unforgettable tune, marking a significant win in their legal battle over the rights to the show’s name.

After a tussle with TAPE Inc., the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines sided with Tito, Vic, and Joey, cancelling the trademark registration of Eat Bulaga and EB in favor of TVJ. This momentous victory paved the way for the trio to reclaim what they believe is rightfully theirs—Eat Bulaga.

During a press briefing at TV5’s Studio 4 in Mandaluyong, Tito Sotto recounted the origins of the iconic marks, revealing that these were born from Joey’s creative mind in 1979, in the very heart of his kitchen. With this legal win, the trio sees it as just the beginning of a much-desired resolution to their legal claims.

When asked about the official use of Eat Bulaga for the program itself, Tito hinted that it might be sooner rather than later. And Vic added that the right time would be when others show respect by refraining from using it.

Their legal counsel, Enrique dela Cruz of Divina Law, emphasized that TVJ is free to use Eat Bulaga as the program title anytime. In fact, this right isn’t limited to the theme song but extends to the entire show.

On the other hand, TAPE Inc.’s legal counsel, Maggi Abraham-Garduque, mentioned that they will exhaust all legal means to overturn the decision. However, Tito and Dela Cruz welcomed this move, confident that they are on the right side of the fence.

With the cancellation of TAPE Inc.’s trademark registration, TVJ hopes that the blocktime producer will respect the decision, urging them to accept that the rightful owner of the title Eat Bulaga is no other than TVJ.

But amidst this legal wrangling, the trio cannot help but feel elated by this early Christmas gift. Being officially recognized by the government is a sweet victory for them, one that they plan to celebrate.

This legal battle stemmed from TVJ’s decision to part ways with TAPE Inc. and GMA 7 after nearly three decades, resulting in a bitter feud over trademark ownership. Yet, despite the discord, Joey emphasized that they still hold love for TAPE Inc. after 44 years, expressing their desire for respect and reconciliation.

In this season of forgiveness and peace, one can’t help but hope for a resolution that will bring harmony and closure to this long-standing feud.