After the sudden announcement made by Eat Bulaga hosts Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon about their departure from Television and Production Exponents (TAPE) Inc.
On May 31, 2023, TVJ already announced its decision to leave TAPE after a series of issues between them and the executives of the production company being led by Romeo Jalosjos.
“Simula ngayong araw, May 31, 2023, kami po ay magpapaalam na sa TAPE Incorporated. Karangalan po namin na nakapaghatid ng tuwa’t saya mula Batanes hanggang Jolo at naging bahagi ng buhay ninyo,” Vic said.
“Saan man kami dalhin ng tadhana, tuloy ang isang libo’t isang tuwa.” he added.
TAPE didn’t allow the TVJ to air their announcement and just decided to show a replay episode to the fans of Eat Bulaga this Friday.
According to Entertainment Writer Jojo Gabinete, the legendary trio and their colleagues were already set to transfer to TV5 to create their own show.
“Idinagdag ng network insider na ‘done deal’ na ang negosasyon na nangyari kamakailan lamang,” said Gabinete.
Aside from Gabinete, Cristy Fermin also confirmed the transfer of the Dabarkads to TV5.
Brightlight Productions was reportedly planning to sign the trio and other hosts who were willing to transfer to them.
As of writing, TAPE has yet to give any statement on the decision of TVJ to leave them after 44 years.
Some experts also believed that the TVJ’s next move is to get the trademark of ‘Eat Bulaga’ from the Jalosjos family.
It can be remembered that Tito already hired the service of a prestigious law firm amid the issue between the Dabarkads and TAPE.