Veteran columnist Cristy Fermin talked about the possibility of ‘Eat Bulaga’ being replaced by ‘It’s Showtime’ on the noontime slot of GMA Network.
It can be recalled that reports about the difficulties being faced by TAPE Inc. in maintaining their rating and their sponsors were circulating on social media.
According to Fermin, GMA Network and its CEO Felipe Gozon was smart enough to offer a slot to Its Showtime as a backup plan if ever that ‘Eat Bulaga’ kept facing issues.
Fermin believed that Gozon was already predicted that TAPE’s Eat Bulaga would end sooner than expected.
TAPE was also facing trademark issues as Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon were already moving to gain the rights for the title ‘Eat Bulaga.’
If ever the legendary trio won the case, TAPE would be forced not to use the ‘Eat Bulaga’ title anymore, which might badly affect the popularity of their show.
And as a businessman, Gozon knew how to make a backup plan.
“Magaling si Gozon na-foresee niya na hindi tatagal ang fake Bulaga kaya kinuha ang It’s Showtime to replace them eventually,” said Fermin.
“‘Yun ‘yung umiikot ngayon eh, na anytime ‘yun na talaga ang ipapalit na main noontime ng 7,” she added.
It can be recalled that some netizens already noticed the warm welcome of GMA Network for I’ts Showtime.
There were also rumours that TAPE Inc. was disappointed that GMA made a warm reception to their own competitor.