Sotto fears ‘Eat Bulaga’ may be used as political platform

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 5) — TV host Tito Sotto on Monday expressed concern that the noontime show “Eat Bulaga” may be used as a political platform following changes in its management.

Speaking to CNN Philippines’ The Source, Sotto said that prior to the departure of the show’s hosts, their camp and the new management of TAPE Inc. went through a long period of negotiations regarding changes in the show. This included introducing a new segment for domestic helpers.

Sotto noted their side disagreed because this was similar to an old segment “Maid in the Philippines,” a beauty pageant for house helpers. This segment flopped as advertisers stayed away, he added.

The former senate president said they later on discovered that there was a political motive behind the planned move, which was for the creation of a party-list for the sector.

“Tama ba ‘yun? All this time have you ever seen me from 1979 to the present na nagsalita sa Eat Bulaga na ‘Ako ay iboto ninyo!' Umaalis ako, nagli-leave ako ‘pag may campaign period at ‘pag ako’y nahalal nagli-leave din ako, di ko ginagamit ang programa,” Sotto pointed out.

[Translation: Is that right? All this time have you ever seen me from 1979 to the present on Eat Bulaga saying 'Vote for me!' I leave every time its campaign period and if I get elected, I also take a leave, I don't use the show.]

“Hindi maganda, pangit at doon mag-uumpisa ang downfall ng Eat Bulaga. Magagalit ang tao,” he added.

[Translation: That is not good, and that is when the downfall of Eat Bulaga starts. The public will get mad.]

The iconic Tito, Vic, and Joey, along with other mainstays, announced their departure from TAPE Inc. last week.

Sotto said they are currently discussing with at least four TV networks regarding their possible transfer. 

The final decision on this matter is expected this week, with target TV airing of their new show targeted for July, he noted.