GMA Network Rejects TAPE Settlement Offer Amid Estafa Dispute
GMA Network has firmly turned down a settlement offer from Television and Production Exponents (TAPE), Inc. in connection with the ₱37.9 million estafa case filed against the production company. The rejection came during a mediation session held at the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office, signaling the network’s insistence on recovering the full amount alleged to have been mishandled.
According to sources, GMA Network found the offer insufficient and decided to escalate the case. Consequently, the complaint has been re-assigned to a different prosecutor for a fresh preliminary investigation. This development underscores the network’s commitment to pursuing the claim through legal channels rather than settling for less.
Background of the ₱37.9 Million Estafa Case
The dispute centers on the 2023 Assignment Agreement between GMA Network and TAPE, wherein GMA alleges that TAPE failed to remit significant advertising revenues. Instead of forwarding these funds, the production company reportedly diverted the money to cover its operational expenses.
GMA’s legal counsel, Atty. Lynn Delfin, expressed the network’s stance clearly: “We want to collect the amount that was misappropriated… despite repeated demands, hindi nabigay sa atin yun.” This statement highlights the frustration over unfulfilled financial obligations despite multiple requests.
TAPE’s Response and Legal Position
On the other hand, TAPE, represented by Atty. Maggie Garduque, acknowledged that there are outstanding payments. However, they questioned whether the issue should be pursued as a civil matter rather than a criminal case. This distinction is crucial because it could influence the nature and course of legal proceedings.
Despite this, GMA remains open to future negotiations but stresses that any settlement proposal must be reasonable and fair to resolve the dispute amicably.
Next Steps and Legal Outlook
With the case now re-raffled to a new prosecutor, both parties await further instructions on the preliminary investigation. The ongoing legal process will determine whether the estafa charges will proceed or if a settlement can eventually be reached.
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