Photo credit: TVJ

The Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) has annulled the Trademark Registration of "Eat Bulaga," the popular television show, in response to a petition lodged by the show's hosts, Vicente "Tito" Castelo Sotto III, Marvic "Vic" Castelo Sotto, and Jose Ma. "Joey" Ramos De Leon, collectively known as TVJ.

The contested registration, numbered 4-2011-005951, was initially granted to Television and Production Exponents, Inc. (TAPE Inc.), covering various goods and services under different classes. These classes include Class 16 for paper, cardboard, and related materials; Class 18 for leather and related goods; Class 21 for household utensils and containers; and Class 25 for clothing and footwear.

TVJ, the petitioners, asserted that TAPE Inc.'s trademark registrations for "Eat Bulaga" and "EB" violated the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines (R.A. No. 8293), specifically pointing to Section 123.1 (g). This section prohibits the registration of a mark that is likely to mislead the public regarding its nature, quality, characteristics, or geographical origin.

In their petition, TVJ alleged that TAPE Inc.'s trademark registrations were obtained in contravention of the provisions of the Intellectual Property Code.

They argued that the marks "Eat Bulaga" and "EB" could mislead the public, leading to confusion about the nature and quality of the goods and services associated with these trademarks.

The IPOPHL, after careful consideration of the petition, ruled in favor of TVJ, deciding to cancel the trademark registration for "Eat Bulaga."

TAPE Inc. has the option to appeal the decision within the stipulated legal timeframe.