‘Nagkamali kami’: BINI apologizes for controversial viral video

P-pop group BINI has issued an apology following the circulation of a viral video clip that caused significant upset and disappointment among their fans, known as BLOOMs.

In a statement addressing the situation, the group acknowledged the emotional impact on their fans, stating, "We know that the past couple of days have been triggering and disappointing for all of you. Sincerely, we understand where all of those feelings are coming from."

The video in question reportedly captured a private moment among the members and friends. It depicted two male friends of the group acting out a sexually suggestive scenario. While group leader Jhoanna was visible, fans identified the voices heard off-camera as members Stacey and Colet. A controversial line heard in the clip was "'Yan 'yung ginagawa niya kay Ashley," which translates to "That's what he does to Ashley," followed by someone confirming that the individual named Ashley was 13 years old.

BINI addressed the video directly in their statement, saying, "The video shows a private moment of us with friends. We definitely did not intend to hurt anyone in the process. We offer no excuse for our actions, reactions, and choice of words. We take full accountability."

The group further extended their apologies to their fans, friends, families, and the general public, expressing hope for reconciliation. They added, "We humbly ask for a chance to reflect on and learn from our mistakes and continue to work on becoming better versions of ourselves." They concluded their message with gratitude, saying, "Maraming salamat po sa inyong malasakit, suporta, at pang-unawa" (Thank you very much for your kindness, support, and understanding).

The incident prompted fans to call on BINI for an explanation, with many expressing disappointment over what they perceived as inappropriate jokes involving a minor.

The two male friends featured in the video, dancer Shawn Castro and P-pop boy group GAT member Ethan David, have also issued their own separate apologies regarding the matter.

Shawn Castro stated that the video was "taken out of context" and clarified that they do not condone the actions depicted. He admitted, "We admit that we were wrong in so many ways with that joke. We became too comfortable and happy with what we were doing or saying. That’s not a good joke, especially how it appeared in the said video."

Ethan David also took full responsibility for his actions and acknowledged that he had "let everyone down." He offered his apology to those affected, adding, "I want everyone to know that I hold big respect for women, and whatever wrongdoing I showed in the viral video does not reflect my values as a person. This will never happen again."