TAPE Inc. is facing this case filed by GMA Network
TAPE Inc. (Television and Production Exponents Incorporated) had this initial reaction to the estafa complaint filed by GMA Network.
For many years, TAPE was known as the production company behind the longest-running noontime show Eat Bulaga until the iconic TVJ trio resigned and their decision was followed by other Dabarkads.
Previously, reports surfaced that TAPE has a debt to GMA but it was still allowed to air its noontime show which eventually became Tahanang Pinakamasaya. Atty. Maggie Abraham-Garduque, TAPE’s legal counsel, said that the reported debt was already settled.
However, GMA Network released a statement on May 22 confirming its decision to file an estafa case against TAPE Inc’s executives. Reportedly, the production company led by the Jalosjos family misappropriated the funds totaling P37,941,352.56.
Based on the article in Abante, Atty. Garduque was asked about the complaint filed by GMA. Their camp had no idea yet regarding the case and she just knew about this through reports.
“I called TAPE about the article published at GMA News but they did not know anything about it. I directed one of the alleged respondents in said case to go to the office of the city prosecutor of Quezon City to check on the case but she was informed that no case was filed against them by GMA. Thus, they were surprised of said news article,” the lawyer said.
She also said that TAPE has not received any copy of the filed complaint. Atty. Garduque added that her clients will release a statement as soon as they receive a copy of the complaint.
“Rest assured that they will follow and respect the legal proceedings,” the TAPE Inc. legal counsel said. Based on the article one of the executives who was included in the complaint was asked about this but the said TAPE officer has not yet received a document regarding this matter.