MANILA, Philippines – Nation’s girl group BINI has taken legal action against a vlogger, filing a criminal complaint for unjust vexation and cybercrime violations at the Hall of Justice in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, on Monday.
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| BINI members, with their legal counsel, file complaints in Laguna against a vlogger accused of maliciously splicing their video, which led to online bashing. Photo courtesy: @attyjoji / Instagram |
The group was joined by their legal counsel, Atty. Joji Alonso, who explained that the case stems from a maliciously edited video involving the members.
Edited video sparked online hate
Alonso said the respondent spliced a 25-minute video of BINI trying and rating Filipino street food into a two-minute clip, deliberately highlighting only their negative reactions.
“The edited version completely altered the narrative of the show,” Alonso explained. “This is not a libel case. It is a case for cybercrime under Sections 4B and 6 of RA 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, in conjunction with unjust vexation under Article 287 of the Revised Penal Code.”
The lawyer stressed that the manipulated video triggered massive online backlash against the group.
“This fueled hate and bashing against BINI—escalating to personal attacks, name-calling, and grave insults. The malicious splicing unjustly cast them in a bad light, causing irreparable emotional and mental distress,” she said.
Why Laguna?
When asked why the complaint was filed in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, Alonso clarified: “Because this is where the crime was committed. The video was uploaded here.”
A stand against digital abuse
Beyond seeking justice for the girl group, Alonso said the case highlights the urgent need for accountability in social media use.
“It must be remembered that the freedom to post online is not absolute. It must always come with truth, accountability, and responsibility. The right to free speech ends when it starts to malign reputations or cause harm to others,” she emphasized.
Alonso said BINI is determined to stand not only for themselves but also for countless others who have suffered from online abuse.
“BINI is taking a strong stance against this digital form of abuse which is so prevalent. Anyone can fall victim. By filing this case, BINI hopes to become a voice for those who remain unheard,” she said.
Possible penalties
If convicted, the respondent could face prisión mayor—imprisonment ranging from six years and one day to twelve years.
“Penalty here is not small,” Alonso stressed. “On top of that, we are also asking damages of ₱1 million for each member of BINI.”
— The Summit Express