SHOW

Protect BINI, protect all women: What the BINI-Gaza controversy says about us

Pauline Joyce Pascual

When internet celebrity Xian Gaza published a Facebook post claiming that a member of the P-pop girl group BINI was sexually active, it was more than just another case of online rumor; it was a stark reminder of how society continues to police and sexualize women, particularly those in the public spotlight.

Gaza's comments, which included calling one member "sobrang palaiyot" and implying that she had "made it a hobby," provoked significant outrage and calls for accountability.

Beyond the fury, there is a larger question: why are women's sexual lives still considered public property while men's are lauded or ignored? Gaza's post targeted an anonymous BINI member, accusing her of sexual activity.

He framed his remarks as "advice" for Generation Z, but the tone was plainly demeaning and invasive.

The outcry was quick. Fans and advocates took to social media to urge BINI's management to take legal action. Celebrity lawyer Joji Alonso later acknowledged that a complaint had been filed, although the specifics are unknown.

Why This Isn’t Just “Chismis”

It's BINI, and they are well-known, especially among women. The virality of Gaza's post is based on two factors: the group's fame and the fact that they are women.

Are women not "meant" to be active? The notion that women should not have sexual desires or be sexually autonomous is outdated and negative. It is based on sexist control, not reality.

This incident shows how misogyny operates in digital spaces. It disguises itself as "concern" or "advice" and thrives on popularity and visibility. It also uses shame to harm women while absolving men of responsibility.

And it is exhausting. As one user aptly put it: "Nakakasawa mag-post pa-tungkol sa taong ‘to pero hopefully majority ng nakaka kita sa mga content ko dito ay may kaparehong kaisipan."

It is 2025, and women's bodies and choices are not public property.