P-Pop group BINI files legal complaint following string of online harassment incidents

• P-Pop group BINI has filed a legal complaint against an unnamed individual following a series of online harassment incidents

• The legal action was revealed via an Instagram Story by celebrity lawyer Atty. Joji Alonso

• The complaint is linked to recent controversial remarks made bya social media personality and other online criticisms

• The lawsuit sets a precedent for public figures in the Philippines seeking legal remedies against cyberbullying and defamatory content

Nation's P-Pop girl group BINI has officially initiated legal action against an unidentified party after enduring a series of online harassment and malicious attacks.

The development, which was first hinted at by celebrity lawyer Joji Alonso on her Instagram Stories, signals a strong stance against online bullying and the spread of defamatory content targeting public figures.

On Thursday night, Atty. Joji Alonso shared a cropped image of what appeared to be the first page of a formal complaint, clearly showing the names of BINI's eight members—Aiah, Colet, Jhoanna, Maloi, Mikha, Sheena, Stacey, and Gwen—listed as the complainants.

Read also

Bacolod woman with 40 arrest warrants faces P1M bail for online betting game-related theft

While the specific charges and the name of the respondent were not disclosed, the post immediately sent waves through social media, with fans and supporters expressing a mix of relief and support for the group's decision.

The legal action comes on the heels of several controversies that have engulfed the group in recent weeks.

A viral video where the members were seen rating Filipino street food drew a wave of criticism from some netizens.

However, the online harassment intensified significantly after self-proclaimed "Internet entrepreneur" made a series of highly controversial and explicit posts on his Facebook page.

In his now-deleted posts, the said "Internet entrepreneur" made vulgar remarks and aimed a direct, derogatory blind item at an unnamed member of the group, which prompted widespread outrage from the public and BINI's dedicated fanbase, known as the "Blooms."

The said socmed personality continued to fan the flames by later naming several members who were "not" the subject of his initial post, further escalating the tension and sparking intense speculation online.

Read also

Filipino cruise ship worker loses job over Valentine’s Day video

The decision to file a formal complaint marks a pivotal moment for BINI and their management, Star Magic.

This move is a departure from the typical strategy of ignoring online trolls and cyberbullies. It sets a precedent that public figures, even those in the fast-growing P-Pop industry, have the right to seek legal remedies to protect their reputation and well-being.

This is not the first time Atty. Alonso has taken action on behalf of her celebrity clients against online harassers, demonstrating a consistent effort to combat cyberbullying.

As the legal process begins, the details of the complaint remain confidential. However, the message is clear: BINI and their management are taking the matter seriously and are committed to holding individuals accountable for their harmful online behavior.

The case is being closely watched by many, as it could become a landmark example in the ongoing struggle against online harassment in the Philippines.

Read also

Internal investigation into senate staffer's drug use completed; turned over to ethics chair

BINI is an all-girl Pinoy pop group formed by ABS-CBN Star Hunt Academy. Their members consist of Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena. In November of 2020, BINI released their pre-debut single, “Da Coconut Nut.”

Meanwhile recently, BINI member Jhoanna issued an apology and clarification for her initial review of Maris Racal's film Sunshine. Her original post, which focused on mental health and resilience, was criticized for allegedly missing the film's core themes of reproductive health and abortion. Jhoanna stated that her intention was to emphasize the importance of support systems and education, and that she was open to learning from different perspectives. Film director Antoinette Jadaone came to Jhoanna's defense, stating that the P-pop star's take was a personal and valid interpretation of the movie's message.

Previously, BINI’s Gwen Apuli turned 22 last June 19. At the time, she treated her followers to a set of stunning photos from her birthday shoot. In the photos beautifully captured by Mark Dookie Ducay, Gwen rocked a pink hairdo. The P-pop idol also looked gorgeous in her chic ensemble during the photoshoot.

Source: KAMI.com.gh