It’s often deemed a man’s world, and from the moment a woman takes her first journey in her mother’s womb, it becomes evident that life may hold its share of challenges. The journey ahead is marked by societal, economic, cultural, and political imbalances that disproportionately affect women. Discrimination, misogyny, representation, power dynamics, and unequal distribution of responsibilities further compound these challenges, all seemingly entrenched in a system designed to favor men.
A group of eight individuals— Jhoanna, Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, and Sheena— known collectively as BINI, have rightfully earned the title of the ‘Nation’s Girl Group’. They stand out in today’s generation with a spirit untethered by societal expectations. BINI is here to stand tall and rewrite the script. They remain true to themselves, showing a remarkable ability to challenge conventional norms despite systemic obstacles. These challenges often place women on pedestals or subject them to undue vexations, which BINI has not only thrived but also became a symbol of what it is to be a woman in a man’s world.
As we celebrate Women’s Month in March, the eight-member girl group emerges as a light of modern Filipina representation. Their journey is championed by strength, independence, and individuality, which define the contemporary Filipino woman.
Empowerment Through Authenticity
In the world of showbiz, where glitz and glamour dominate, BINI is setting a new standard. As a highly popular girl group known for hit songs like ‘Na Na Na,’ ‘Karera,’ and ‘Pantropiko,’ they are constantly in an intense spotlight. Amidst this attention, maintaining authenticity can be challenging, as one must avoid projecting a mere consumable image.
Living authentically can be a complex journey, especially for women who face unwarranted criticisms due to commercial pressures, industry expectations, and mass perceptions. Yet, living authentically is about connecting with people on a genuine level, making it a natural and felt experience.
“Lahat naman tayo pwede maging role model basta yung authenticity nando’n. Just be authentic, nagre-resonate ‘yan sa audience, that’s why feeling namin mas comfortable ‘yung blooms (BINI’s fans) sa pakikipag-interact sa amin. Hindi sila naiilang, binabarda nila kami. Pag may mali kami nagawa, kaya nila kami i-correct– ine-educate nila kami”, Jhoanna shared.
Immersing themselves where flashy facades often overshadow genuine talent, BINI is also breaking the mold. They’re not just unapologetically being themselves; they’re doing it with style, flair, and a contagious sense of individuality. Amidst all the dazzle, BINI proves you can stay true to yourself without losing touch with your core values.
“I feel like a lot of people struggle with having their own identity, especially when you are in this kind of industry kasi you can be compared to so much artist in the industry– singers, dancers and it’s up to you whether you’re going to just follow in their footsteps which isn’t something that you should be copying because you have your own personality”, Mikha said.
“You have your own truth and to find authenticity you really have to surround yourself with people who make you confident and comfortable in your own skin and you just can’t always stick to the standard the society has made but make your own standards too”, Mikha added.
In a society where men dominate and women are often confined and labeled, BINI stands as a symbol of empowerment for women. They are upright with resilience, embracing their true selves, sticking to their core values, and understanding their unique tendencies.
BINI fearlessly maneuvers in an industry prone to pigeonholing artists. They embrace championing their true selves and proudly showcase them. They continuously reshape the definition of an artist because the journey isn’t confined to the stage spotlight but stands as an inspiring light for women everywhere to stay true to themselves.
“Nung mas pinakita namin ‘yung side namin na makulit– sinasabi nga nila ‘kanal humour’, mas natutuwa po yung mga tao po sa amin”, Jhoanna told Zeen.
Pressure in Stardom
Three years into their career, an inevitable pressure began to cast its looming shadow. It’s a double-edged sword, capable of either dismantling them or standing as a testament to people’s expectations for the group. Their surge to fame exposes them to heightened scrutiny. It serves as a recognition of their achievements, thrusting them into the limelight for the waves they’ve created and the successes they’ve attained.
The pressure becomes a paradox—a looming force and, simultaneously, a symbol of the public’s lofty expectations for BINI.
Stacey was keen on saying, “Right now sobrang kailangan talaga namin bantayan ‘yung isa’t isa since we’re slowly getting there po, kasi isang mali lang po na magagawa namin kapag papunta na tayo sa paangat ang titignan talaga ng tao sa amin is ‘yung mali”.
The title of the ‘Nation’s Girl Group’ given to them is no small feat, as it reflects the terrain of the P-Pop industry. For BINI, achieving their dreams, forging meaningful connections with their supporters, and illuminating through their music is an ulterior motive for their artistry to continue to blossom.
Meanwhile Jhoanna added, “Pero opo, mahirap po siya. Kasi bago lang po kami i-launch as a group nag-train kami sleepless nights, diet, breakdown, malayo sa family napagdaan din po namin ‘yun”.
The sacrifices that come with stardom are undeniable, but those in the spotlight often find solace in the tangible rewards of their hard work. A notable example occurred during their recent anniversary celebration. The overwhelming support and massive turnout surprised the management as ‘Blooms’ lined up along Eugenio Lopez Drive Jr. The situation reached a point where security personnel had to escort the girls—an achievement that symbolized their flourishing careers.
“Being a P-Pop idol isa ito sa highlight namin like ito ‘yung ikukwento namin sa mga future anak namin, and as much as nandito kami chine-cherish namin every time”, Maloi was optimistic in what the future holds for each and every one of them.
It is truly fascinating to observe the connection that Filipino groups like SB19, Sexbomb, and other local acts have built with their fans. This connection is a crucial factor in their success, and it is a testament not only to their exceptional talent but also to their relatable personalities and the authenticity they bring to their musical journey.
On the other hand, BINI, as a girl group, seems to have successfully captured the attention and admiration of the younger generation, particularly Gen Zs. Their ability to connect with their audience suggests they understand the importance of responsibly using their platform. Awareness of their influence is a significant step, allowing them to shape their public image and positively impact their fans.
“I feel like we influence mostly the Gen-Zs through our music. Besides that nabanggit na ni Ate Jho kanina na naipapakaita namin ‘yung authentic and genuine self namin sakanila and we use our platforms wisely like we share positivity, we share kindness and nonsense, which is surprisingly ‘yun ang nagugustuhan ng tao feeling ko naiinspire namin sila na hindi porket babae ka parang may limit ka sa mga ginagawa mo– like you can do so much more” Sheena said.
The Noteworthy Trajectory of BINI's Music
It’s not uncommon for songs to experience a delayed surge in popularity. Sometimes, certain tracks take time to gain widespread recognition and resonate with a larger audience. This phenomenon is often influenced by various factors, including evolving music trends, changes in the cultural landscape, or even exposure to different platforms.
“I think kapag may nirelease na song, hindi po nawawala ‘yung excitement na sana eto na ‘yun– ‘yung mga thoughts na sana itong song namin na we poured so much effort and hardwork sana mag boogsh siya pero it’s not always the case talaga. Sometimes, it needs to be put out there parang ipa-process muna before people would really go into it and see people say na ‘okay we like it’”. Aiah mentioned.
For artists like them, the late popularity of some songs could be attributed to several reasons. It might be that the initial release didn’t receive as much attention, but over time, word-of-mouth, social media shares, or other promotional efforts helped bring the music to a broader audience. Additionally, the evolving tastes of listeners and shifts in popular culture can play a role in the delayed success of certain songs.
“Kasi sa ‘Pantropiko’ nilabas namin siya ng November– pa-Christmas season siya, ako actually personally mga friends ko nagtatanong bakit kayo ng summer single ng November? Parang wala sa season pero I think katulad ng sinasabi namin– ‘yung song talaga eh, it’s the song. Wala siya season, it’s the song talaga.” Maloi shared.
“Actually nung nirelease po namin ‘yung ‘Pantropiko’ dahil nga sobrang busy nung month na ‘yun, November and December hindi kami nakipag collaborate with other artists unlike ‘Karera’. ‘Yung ‘Karera’ po kasi very hands-on kami ‘don pag may kasabay kaming artist sa sa isanhg event lahat ‘yun dadaanan namin makikipag tiktok kami”, Jhoanna added.
The important thing is that the recognition comes, even if it’s later than expected. This late trend in popularity can contribute to the longevity of an artist’s career, showcasing their music’s timeless and enduring qualities.
“I think that’s what happened to ‘Na Na na’ and ‘Pantropiko’ kasi we actually expected ‘Karera’ more instead of Pantropiko (to be a hit), but it’s nice how people are liking it” Aiah said.
I Am Who I Am Because of the Women I Look Up To
In celebration of Women’s Month, each member of BINI paid homage to someone they profoundly admire. BINI resonates with many as a group, as it carries values that align seamlessly with those of its inspirational figures. The members find inspiration in their female role models, establishing a connection that mirrors the shared values and aspirations between them and these influential women. This bond contributes to the group’s relatability and underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements and qualities of women during this special month.
Aiah, Maloi and Mikha understand that a mother’s heart comes from a place of pure love, and they want to emulate the same qualities that her mother upholds.
“It’s the qualities of being a Mom, or any mom in general like ‘yung mga moms they hold such great values to how they are to their kids and their doing so much that not everybody see all the effort that they put in to, saludo ako sa lahat ng moms out there!”, Aiah mentioned.
Sheena, Gwen, and Stacey have been inspired by various music personalities. Sheena was greatly influenced by Sarah Geronimo, which led her to become the artist that she is today. Gwen idolizes KZ Tandingan, whose exceptional talent has enabled her to showcase her skills locally and internationally. Meanwhile, Blackpink’s Lisa Manoban has greatly inspired Stacey, who has succeeded in her own right.
“Kasi never ko talaga inimagine sarili ko as P-Pop idol, as an idol talaga kasi wala feeling ko lang noon estduyante ako and magiging flight attendant in the future… pero nung nakilala ko talaga ang Blackpink, nung nakilala ko si Lisa parang pinangarap ko na rin talaga maging idol someday. Kaya nung nahihirapan ako sa training, nung muntik na ako magquit siya ‘yung iniisip ko kasi someday mamimeet kita and na-meet ko siya sa concert”, Stacey happily shared.
Jhoanna and Colet are big fans of the entertainment industry in the Philippines, and they idolize two of the most prominent female personalities in the field. What makes these women stand out to them is their exceptional ability to articulate their thoughts and opinions with grace and poise.
“Sobrang tapang niya po, parang kung ano po ang nasa isip niya and kung ano po ang tingin niya na tamang ginagawa nags-stand po siya sa self niya, same po kami” Colet mentioned.
The undeniable influence of idolizing exceptional women has shaped BINI’s character, values, and overall presentation. Their admirable traits have been instilled in BINI, ultimately transforming them into the remarkable individuals they are today. This is something that Gen-Z can proudly look up to, just as these girls look up to their idols.
Walo Hanggang Dulo
In Lualhati Bautista’s Dekada ‘70, she wrote about how women’s upbringing may have impacted their lives.
Pero ang babae,
talian man ang katawan o suutan ng chastity belt,
ay may uri ng kalayaang
hindi mananakaw ng kahit sino: ang kalayaan niyang mag-isip
Like any gradient, a distinct set of colors is required to complete it, enabling it to fulfill its purpose. Similarly, BINI comprises individual members with unique characteristics contributing to the group’s entirety. Like the colors completing the gradient, each member’s distinctive traits combine to form the cohesive group known as ‘BINI.’ Despite differences in their upbringing and environments, these disparities don’t diminish the legitimacy of the rising girl group. Instead, they add to the richness and diversity that collectively define BINI, allowing each member to shine in her own right.
With these distinct sets of colors, each of it has an outstanding quality. Jhoanna is keen on her resilience as she conquered all the challenges. Maloi has a heart that is full of gratitude. Gwen and Mikha are hungry for growth and willing to improve, never settling for less. Stacey has a joyous heart that radiates positivity. Colet is straightforward yet humble in her persona. Sheena is brave and faces things wholeheartedly. And Aiah has a fighter mentality that goes a long way in overcoming any obstacle that comes her way.
When you combine all of these traits, you get a genuine BINI that exudes confidence. Despite their vulnerabilities, it is a testament to BINIs’ recognition of their emotions, which empowers them individually and as a group. To represent modern Filipina women, one must possess the ability to think expansively and confidently while maintaining an authentic inner core. This core contributes to the essence of a what a modern Filipina woman is– full of love, confidence, and genuineness– even in the face of challenges.
Through thick and thin, these girls have formed an unbreakable bond. They faced every obstacle and challenge that came their way with determination, resilience, and their sisterly love for each other has only grown stronger. They know they’ve got each other’s backs and won’t let anything go their way. For BINI, ‘Walo Hanggang Dulo’ is a way of life. They’re determined to succeed and won’t stop until they’ve reached their goals, for that is how to be a BINI in a man’s world.
