Rising P-pop sensation BINI has filed a cybercrime complaint against the uploader of a spliced video that falsely portrayed the group and sparked a wave of online hate, in what experts call a troubling example of digital manipulation fueling harassment.
Filed at the Santa Rosa Police Cybercrime Unit, the complaint centers on a doctored clip that circulated across multiple social media platforms last week. The manipulated video falsely linked the group to negative remarks about Filipino street food, igniting public backlash and a torrent of online abuse directed at the eight-member girl group.
BINI’s management, ABS-CBN’s Star Music, confirmed that the clip was maliciously altered and stressed that none of the members made the statements shown in the viral content. “This is not just about protecting BINI’s image—it’s about holding accountable those who weaponize technology to harm others,” said a spokesperson.
The National Bureau of Investigation’s Cybercrime Division has been tapped to assist in tracing the source of the upload, amid rising concerns about the spread of deepfakes and spliced content in the Philippines.
Supporters, referred to as “Blooms,” have gathered around the group, posting supportive messages on social media and calling for stronger laws against manipulated media.Analysts caution that these kinds of incidents show how susceptible public figures are to online smear campaigns.According to cybersecurity analyst Mark Rivera, “The tools to distort reality are becoming more accessible.”“Without stronger laws and digital literacy, cases like this will only multiply.”
While the case unfolds, BINI continues its scheduled performances, using the controversy as a platform to raise awareness about responsible online behavior. For many, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of how easily truth can be twisted in the digital age.
