IS THE BINI x PEOPLE VS FOOD HATE, FORCED?

Just six days ago, the popular YouTube channel People Vs Food, known for its food challenge content and cultural taste tests, featured rising Filipino girl group BINI in a new video. In the episode, the girls were asked to try and rate various Filipino snacks. Not long after its release, the video went viral, sparking mixed reactions and making BINI a trending topic across multiple social media platforms.

The comments section quickly became a battleground. Many Filipino netizens expressed disappointment with some of the girls’ reactions, saying they could have shown more appreciation or respect when they didn’t like certain dishes. Some argued that as public figures and cultural representatives, BINI should have been more careful with their words, especially when discussing Filipino food on an international platform..

The snacks they tried included well-known local favorites like Ding Dong mixed nuts, kwek-kwek, hopia na baboy, Chocnut, pork isaw, balut, betamax, mamon, turon, and taho. While some fans pointed out that not all Filipinos eat or are even familiar with these snacks, others reminded viewers that Filipino cuisine is extremely diverse. What may be common in one region might be unfamiliar in another.

There were also comments suggesting that the way the food was prepared and presented in the video may not have reflected the typical street-style versions many Filipinos know and love. This opens up a fair point: perhaps the girls reacted not to the concept of the food, but to unfamiliar versions of it.

Still, the debate continues online. Critics say that as influencers and role models, especially on an international stage, BINI members carry the responsibility of representing Filipino culture thoughtfully. On the other hand, supporters argue that honesty is part of authenticity, and disliking a food item doesn't automatically equal disrespect.

In the midst of the buzz, BINI is also promoting their newest single, “Shagidi Shapopo.” The song references a popular Filipino children’s game, highlighting another layer of cultural nostalgia and national pride. Through their music and online appearances, BINI continues to bring elements of Filipino identity into the global spotlight.

So, is the backlash against BINI on People Vs Food justified? Or is it a case of unrealistic expectations in the age of virality? Regardless of where you stand, one thing is clear — BINI remains one of the most talked-about Filipino girl groups today, pushing local culture forward in new and unexpected ways.