P-pop group Bini bags two int’l awards
There’s no such thing as “sobra-sobra” when it comes to Filipina talent.
Over the weekend, Carmelle Collado and P-pop girl group Bini made their mark on the global music stage with historic wins at the inaugural Eurovision Song Contest Asia (see related story on Page A5) and the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, respectively.
Carmelle’s winning number “Sobra-Sobra” (“Too Much”), written by Nica del Rosario and Mat Olavides, challenges the conflicting expectations imposed on women. It invokes both Maria Clara and Gabriela Silang and stresses that women can be whatever they want to be without being judged.
The songwriters have also worked with Bini: Del Rosario on “Karera,” and Olavides on “Salamin, Salamin” and “Pantropiko.”
Besting Taylor Swift, others
Bini added two more awards to its growing list of international accolades. The eight-member group became the first Filipino, Southeast Asian and non-Korean act to win Favorite Global Music Star at the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, held in Los Angeles on Nov. 14 (Nov. 15 local time).
Representing Asia, Bini bested nominees including Taylor Swift, Tyla, Karol G and Zara Larsson.
“Thank you, Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards 2026, Blooms and everyone who voted for Bini as Favorite Global Music Star. It’s truly an honor to be part of this year’s winners!” the group said on social media.
Bini also received the Most Influential Southeast Asian Artiste–Female award at the second Jupiter Music Awards in Vietnam on Sunday.
“We’re beyond grateful,” the group said.
ABS-CBN Music and Integrated Events head Roxy Liquigan called the three victories a proud moment for the country.
“Carmelle and Bini have shown that Filipino talent can stand alongside the best in the world,” he said in a statement. “Their success is a source of great pride for Filipinos.”
‘Mixed emotions’
In her victory, Carmelle earned 211 points, topping both the jury (93) and public votes (118). The jury votes, which accounted for half the result, were determined during a dress rehearsal on Nov. 13. The other half came from public voting.
The result drew coverage from the international media, including the Associated Press, BBC, the Guardian and the New York Times. Carmelle is also expected to perform at the Eurovision Song Contest in Bulgaria in 2027, according to the Guardian.
Clad in a colorful, flame-inspired outfit, she showcased not only the powerful vocals she’s known for but also her talent in rapping and dancing. As she took the stage, names of influential Filipinas flashed on the screens behind her. I
