Senate recognizes BINI as first Filipino act at Coachella
The Senate has formally recognized BINI as the first Filipino act to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in California.
The upper chamber unanimously adopted the resolution authored by Sen. Bam Aquino as the eight-member group appeared in the plenary session on May 6.
“For the first time, a Filipino group performed at one of the largest and most famous music festivals in the world. We can say that this success is a reflection of Filipino talent and skill on the global stage,” Aquino said in his sponsor speech.
“BINI's success is a victory to be celebrated amidst the challenges and crises facing our country. During their performance at Coachella, they showcased our Filipino pride by incorporating traditional and elements of Pantropiko into their costumes, music, and choreography. The cherry on top was when BINI introduced themselves in their native languages,” he added.
Senators Joel Villanueva, Erwin and Raffy Tulfo, Risa Hontiveros, Jinggoy Estrada, Loren Legarda, and Kiko Pangilinan also commended the girl group in their speeches, some peppered with numerous references to BINI songs.
Under Resolution No. 370, the Senate recognized Filipino artists who “exemplify excellence and bring pride to the nation through their achievements in the global arena.”
Filed on April 17, Aquino said in his resolution that BINI's Coachella debut "underscores the growing potential of the Philippine creative economy."
In an interview with ABS-CBN News, BINI leader Jhoanna Robles summarized the group's sentiments.
"Sobrang grateful kami kasi di namin inexpect na mangyayari 'to, na makakatungtong kami sa ibang stage, sa Senate naman. So thank you po sa pagkilala; parang na-validate din lahat ng hard work. Malaking bagay ito sa amin," she said.
BINI performed at Coahella 2026 on April 10 and 17. The 2026 iteration of the festival featured big names in the international music scene, including Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, Karol G, The Strokes, and Addison Rae, among others.
Consisting of members Mikha, Aiah, Maloi, Jhoanna, Colet, Sheen Gwen, and Stacey, BINI debuted in 2021 with Born to Win. They skyrocketed to fame in 2023 and 2024 as their songs Pantropiko, Salamin, Salamin, Karera, and more went viral.
