'Proud Filipinas' BINI receive Billboard Global Force award
MANILA, Philippines — P-pop girl group BINI became the second Filipino artist after Sarah Geronimo to receive the Billboard Philippines Global Force honor at the annual Billboard Women in Music Awards.
The 2026 ceremony took place last April 29 (the 30th in the Philippines) in Los Angeles' Hollywood Palladium hosted by Keke Palmer, with model-actress Cara Delevingne presenting the award to BINI.
Delevingne cited the Nation's Girl Group debuting during the pandemic — their "sweetness, sparkle, and sisterhood breaking through the screen" — and winning Billboard Philippines' Powerhouse award earlier this year.
She also mentioned BINI becoming the first homegrown Filipino act to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival just a couple of weeks ago and the immense support of their fans, Blooms.
A bumper showed members of the group speaking over clips of past performances, with leader Jhoanna expressing how honored they were to represent the Philippines on a global stage.
Another member, Aiah, said the "BINI-core" that people love and enjoy is just the girls being themselves, with another member Gwen adding their personality shows in their songs making them relatable.
The group's song, "Cherry on Top," played as BINI took the stage to accept the award from Delevingne, and member Colet began the speech with introductions and gratitude.
Related: BINI breaks down 'Signals' EP during Grammy Museum visit
"Standing here tonight is something we BINI could only dream about," Colet continued, calling the recognition a milestone and responsibility. "We are deeply honored to be given the chance represent Filipino music and artists back home."
Colet also acknowledged fellow honorees, admitting to be big fans of the likes of Thalia, Kehlani, Teyana Taylor, and Laufey, the latter whom they snapped a photo with earlier on the red carpet.
"Just like these artists, we hope that we also inspired young girls watching and they realize their dreams are also valid no matter where they come from," Jhonna said, thanking their parents, supporters, their label, and the Philippine contingent of Billboard.
Jhoanna ended the speech saying the group was accepting the honor "not just as BINI but more importantly as proud Filipinas," which earned cheers from the crowd.
"Maraming salamat at mabuhay ang musikang Pilipino," Jhoanna finished, echoing Sarah's own speech back in 2024, which also ended in Filipino.
BINI can now look forward to a grand homecoming before embarking on their "Signals" world tour beginning in June.
RELATED: BINI adds another night to 'Signals' show in Manila
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