MANILA, Philippines — The mother of Bini member Gwen Apuli says she plans to take legal action after her daughter became the target of online harassment, following a viral YouTube video featuring the P-pop group.
Malou Llaguno, Apuli’s mother, posted a message Saturday over Facebook Story indicating her frustration and intent to pursue the matter legally.
“What if I’ll make a move to pursue it? Para mabigyan ng leksyon. gilgil ako buti na lang umiiral pa [patience] ko (What if I go ahead and make a move —just to teach them a lesson? I’m seething. Good thing I still have some patience left (sic),” she wrote.
After professionals and fans of Bini shared possible legal actions they could pursue, she posted again, “Thank you sir for those advises and instruction, we’ll start the process on monday. thank you God, I for bringing us to him.”
The backlash stemmed from Bini’s appearance on the People Vs Food YouTube channel, where the group rated traditional Filipino snacks such as betamax, hopia, and balut. The video has since racked up more than 2.5 million views as of posting.
Some viewers criticized the members for allegedly giving low ratings to local food, accusing them of being unpatriotic. The criticism quickly escalated, with some netizens resorting to name-calling and verbal abuse online.
Bini’s fanbase, known as Blooms, has since rallied behind the group, calling out their talent agency Star Magic for what they see as a lack of protection. The hashtag #ProtectBINI trended on X (formerly Twitter) over the weekend.
“If no one can see the ‘protection’ you’re doing, people will forever think BINI girls are free to bash without consequences,” user @treasuresejeong wrote.
“I usually don’t add fuel to the fire but this is getting out of hand. For her parent to do action about it, they are hurting so much. So please do something!!” posted @spencelee010.
“It hurts to see BINI receive online hate when all they do is share their talent and passion. Management must address this before it takes a deeper toll,” added @EyyableGrizzz.
“Bini is one of your biggest artists, yet we’ve heard nothing about you protecting them from all the hate and malicious acts that have been spreading about them. i’ve never heard silence quite this loud. take action, protect your artists,” said @jentlecolet.
Dubbed the “Nation’s Girl Group,” Bini is currently on vacation after the success of their “BINIverse World Tour.” The eight-member group has gained massive popularity with hit songs such as “Pantropiko,” “Salamin Salamin,” “Karera,” “Huwag Muna Tayong Umuwi,” and “Blink Twice,” among others.
Star Magic has not issued a statement as of press time.
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