MANILA, Philippines —The “Nation’s Girl Group” BINI took a major step onto the international stage after receiving the Global Force Award at the Billboard Women in Music 2026 on Wednesday night (Thursday in Manila) at the Hollywood Palladium.
Presented by model and actress Cara Delevingne, the honor recognizes artists who have built audiences beyond their home countries. Delevingne cited the group’s steady rise during the pandemic and its growing global reach.
The eight-member act used its acceptance speech to highlight both gratitude and responsibility as representatives of Filipino music.
“Good evening everyone we are BINI, an eight member girl group from the Philippines. Thank you Billboard for this Global Force Award. Standing here tonight is something we BINI could only dream about. We are deeply honored to be given a chance to represent Filipino music and artists back home,” member Colet said.
She added, “This is not just a milestone for us but also a responsibility we carry with so much pride. We also want to acknowledge our co-awardees tonight who we look up to. We are big big fans of yours. We can’t believe we’re in the same room breathing the same air.”
Group leader Jhoanna emphasized the importance of visibility for young audiences, particularly aspiring artists watching from around the world.
“And just like these artists, we hope that we also inspire young girls watching this and they realize that their dreams are also valid no matter where they come from,” she said.
“To our families, hi mom, dad we’re finally here! To our supporters, our BLOOMs, hi BLOOMs we miss you! Of course, our company ABS-CBN, thank you so much for taking a chance on these eight women and believing in us since day 1,” she continued.
Jhoanna closed with a message directed at the broader Filipino music community saying, “Shoutout also to Billboard Philippines for always supporting Filipino music and Filipino artists. We accept this award not just as BINI but more importantly as proud Filipinas. Again, we are BINI. Maraming salamat at mabuhay ang musikang Pilipino.”
On the red carpet, Jhoanna described the recognition as significant not only for the group but for Filipino artists overall.
“It really means a lot for us, especially for us as a Filipina group. It feels like this award is a reminder for us that these eight women can stand on any stage and we hope that we help open doors for more Filipino artists,” she said.
The honor comes during a milestone period for BINI, following performances at the GRAMMY Museum and the Coachella, where they became the first all-Filipino girl group to perform at the festival.
Earlier in March, the P-pop girl group was also honored with the Powerhouse award at Billboard Philippines‘ Women In Music awards.
Backstage, the group also met Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey, one of the night’s awardees.
Other honorees at this year’s ceremony included The Beaches (Global Force), Zara Larsson (Breakthrough), Mariah the Scientist (Rising Star), Tate McRae (Hitmaker), Ella Langley (Powerhouse), Laufey (Innovator), Kehlani (Impact), Thalia (Icon), Teyana Taylor (Visionary), and HUNTR/X (Women of the Year).
