Ely Buendia Denies Rumors Behind the Song “Spoliarium” Once Again

ELY BUENDIA – Eraserheads frontman Ely Buendia dismisses the Spoliarium controversy once again, reiterating that the song has no hidden political meaning.

Ely Buendia has once again refuted the long-standing speculation that their song Spoliarium is linked to the controversy involving Pepsi Paloma and TVJ.

During a media conference for the documentary Combo On The Run, which chronicles the journey of the iconic OPM band, Buendia addressed the persistent rumors and dismissed them as completely baseless. He clarified that the song has nothing to do with Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon, and Richie D’Horsie, contrary to the widespread theory.

“This is a sad thing. I was really heartbroken when that thing came out because I was such a huge fan,” Buendia admitted. “They are my heroes and I wouldn’t dream of writing a song to tarnish my heroes, so that’s the most ridiculous rumor.”

Firmly shutting down the accusations, he reiterated, “And [I] will maintain until today that it’s not about them, it’s not about Pepsi.”

The song Spoliarium has long been associated with the infamous 1982 case in which Pepsi Paloma accused TVJ members of misconduct. However, Buendia has consistently denied these claims, insisting that the lyrics have a different meaning altogether.

It can be recalled that in March 2021, during his guest appearance on the Wake Up with Jim and Saab podcast, Buendia revealed that Spoliarium was simply about excessive drinking. He explained that the “golden liquor” mentioned in the song refers to Goldschlager, an alcoholic beverage containing real gold flakes. Additionally, the names “Enteng and Joey” do not refer to the TV hosts but were, in fact, the names of Eraserheads’ road managers at the time.

Despite his repeated clarifications, the urban legend surrounding Spoliarium continues to persist. However, for Ely Buendia, the theory remains nothing more than an unfounded rumor that should finally be put to rest.