Lawyers from GMA Network and Television and Production Exponents (TAPE) Inc. attended a mediation conference on Thursday at the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office to explore a possible settlement regarding GMA’s estafa complaint against TAPE.
GMA Network’s legal counsel, Atty. Lynn Delfin, emphasized the network’s position: “We want to collect the amount that was misappropriated… the amount that should have been given to GMA but was not remitted by the officers of TAPE. Unfortunately, despite repeated demands, hindi nabigay sa atin ’yon.”
TAPE Inc. did not deny its obligations. “I think TAPE naman is not denying that there’s collectibles to the corporation. Maybe the main contention only is whether it’s civil or criminal,” said TAPE’s legal counsel, Atty. Maggie Garduque.
The estafa complaint involves the alleged misuse of P37.9 million in advertising revenues assigned to GMA under a 2023 agreement. GMA claims the funds were diverted to TAPE’s operational expenses, violating the trust arrangement.
Another mediation conference is scheduled for June 11. “We have been saying din naman that management is open to listen and to see what offer they have. And if it’s reasonable, we can decide on what to do about it,” said Delfin.
Garduque added, “Under the rules, ‘yung mediation kasi is also dependent on the complainant if they are willing or open for settlement... maganda na nalaman natin on the part of GMA that they are open for settlement.”
If no agreement is reached, the case will move forward to preliminary investigation.