BINI Faces Backlash Over Filipino Street Food Reactions
BINI – The Nation’s Girl Group is facing online criticism following their guest appearance on the popular food show People Vs. Food, where they were asked to taste and rate well-known Filipino street snacks.
Some of the snacks served included kwek-kwek (battered quail eggs), isaw (grilled intestines), yema (milk candy), betamax (grilled coagulated blood), mamon (sponge cake), turon (banana spring roll), taho (sweet silken tofu), balut (duck embryo), and hopia baboy (pork-filled pastry), among others.
While trying the various dishes, the members’ facial expressions and reactions sparked mixed responses online. Some netizens felt the group came across as too picky or overly dramatic, suggesting they had likely eaten those snacks before becoming famous. Others criticized their English accents or accused them of pretending not to know or enjoy the food to protect their image.
Despite the backlash, many fans stood by BINI. Some noted that if it had been another group on the show, the reaction would likely have been less intense. They said BINI’s fame makes them a bigger target for criticism. Others pointed out that food preferences are personal, and disliking certain dishes doesn’t make someone less Filipino. They added that many people, even non-celebrities, are also selective with food—and that’s completely normal.
Supporters also called out the double standards, saying that labeling BINI as “embarrassing” was unfair, especially when the harsh comments themselves were more problematic. They urged the public to be more respectful and reminded everyone that both fans and artists are entitled to their own tastes and opinions.
As of writing, BINI has not released an official statement regarding the issue.
Meanwhile, BINI is a P-pop girl group under ABS-CBN’s Star Music, known for their empowering songs and energetic performances. They debuted in 2021 with “Born to Win” and gained popularity with hits like “Kapit Lang,” “Pantropiko,” and “Salamin, Salamin.” The group consists of eight members: Aiah, Colet, Maloi, Gwen, Stacey, Mikha, Jhoanna, and Sheena.