A DAY after the exit of original hosts Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon on Wednesday, the remaining “Dabarkads” Maine Mendoza, Paolo Ballesteros, Allan K., Jose Manalo, Wally Bayola, Ryzza Mae Dizon and Ryan Agoncillo tendered their resignation on May 31.
A letter of resignation dated May 31, 2023 and addressed to Romeo Jalosjos, Jr., chairman of Television and Production Exponents, Inc. (TAPE), was posted on the Instagram account of actress Pauleen Luna-Sotto, wife of Vic Sotto, on June 1. The letter had the names and signatures of Maine, Paolo, Allan, Jose, Wally, Ryzza and Ryan.
Members of the production, writers, sales and cameramen have allegedly followed suit and resigned en masse.
Meanwhile, TAPE, Inc. released a statement yesterday saying it was “saddened by the turn of events …but respect the decision of the hosts….”
The production company said it was grateful to those who have contributed to the noontime show’s success and promises that it will fulfill its commitment to quality entertainment.
“It is unfortunate, but life must go on. As with life, we have to accept changes but we have a duty to every Filipino.
“Abangan ninny ang mga bagong magpapasaya at magpapatibok ng ating mga puso. Aasahan ninfo ang mas masaya, mas nakakaaliw at HIGIT PA SA ISANG LIBO’T ISANG TUWA ng Eat Bulaga,” the letter read.
“Patuloy ang Dabarkads na maglilingkod para sa Inyo, mga Kapuso, MULA APARRI HANGGANG JOLO AT SA BUONG MUNDO.
“Ang pag-alis ng mga hosts ay hindi dahilan para tumigil ang pag-ikot ng mundo,” it ended.
The statement was signed by Romeo “Jon” Jalosjos, Jr. (president, CEO) and Seth Frederick “Bullet” P. Jalosjos (director for finance).
