BINI member Gwen Apuli has called on fans to respect the group's privacy following a series of disturbing incidents where some fans reportedly kept knocking on the group's hotel room doors while they were resting to ask for photos. 

Gwen took to her X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, August 14, to express her frustration, stating, “Nakakalungkot, palala na [nang] palala.”

In a follow-up post, Gwen emphasized the importance of personal space, particularly given the group's demanding schedule. “I really hope everyone respects people’s privacy... we appreciate your love and support... but pleasee… not to the point you’ll go knock [on our rooms' doors] just for [a] picture,” she wrote.

Gwen's fellow BINI member, Aiah Arceta, also voiced her concerns by sharing Gwen's message on her own X page. 

Aiah, who has previously addressed issues of privacy, reiterated the need for boundaries. “We genuinely care for and appreciate everyone who support us. However, at the end of the day, tao lang din kami and need din namin ng personal time and space para makapag recharge,” she wrote. 

Aiah also thanked fans who have been respectful, stating, “Thank you to all the blooms who are very respectful with our space and had asked nicely for a photo, the best kayo.”

Another BINI member, Maloi Ricalde, added her voice to the discussion by quote-tweeting Gwen's post with the reminder: “Rest is essential.”

These concerns are not new for BINI. Aiah had previously called for respect after she had a disturbing incident in Cebu where a man invaded her personal space while she was at a bar and allegedly tried to kiss her. 

READ: BINI’s Aiah Arceta requests respect for privacy following viral incidents

She addressed the issue on Instagram, highlighting the need for fans to recognize the group's humanity. “I like taking pictures with others and meeting people who are passionate about music and entertainment. However, I hope people also see and respect us as human beings,” she wrote.

The group's management, led by Star Magic Head Laurenti Dyogi, has also urged fans to respect the members' privacy, especially during their personal time. 

Direk Lauren previously addressed the issue after Maloi and Aiah experienced uncomfortable public encounters following their sold-out concerts in June. He emphasized the importance of giving the members their space, particularly during their limited time off with family and friends.

A netizen commented on Rappler's post about Gwen’s tweets, writing, “Ayaw pa naman ni Ms. Lea Salonga ng ganyan ☹️,” referencing a similar incident involving the Broadway star. Lea Salonga herself replied to the comment with, “Korek,” reinforcing the call for respect and boundaries.

This exchange is connected to an incident last year when a fan attempted to enter Lea’s dressing room on Broadway after a performance of Here Lies Love. At the time, Lea took to her own Twitter account (now X) to remind everyone, “Just a reminder… I have boundaries. Do not cross them. Thank you.”

READ: Lea Salonga responds after ‘dressing room’ video goes viral: ‘I have boundaries’

While BINI appreciates the support from their fans, the group is making it clear that their personal space should not be compromised. As Gwen pointed out, respecting their privacy is crucial for the group to recharge and continue delivering great performances.

— By Samantha Prats