The core of the "scandal" was the public reaction and the alleged misrepresentation of the shoot's nature. Critics and fans felt the pictorial was a drastic departure from her wholesome image. There were also discussions regarding whether the final published photos aligned with what Luna had agreed to during the shoot, a common issue in the entertainment industry regarding creative control and editing.
In response, Vic Sotto took immediate legal action, filing a petition for a writ of habeas data with the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court on January 7, 2025. He also filed 19 counts of cyber libel against Darryl Yap. pauleen luna scandal