In praise of the modern ‘binibini’

MANILA, Philippines – How would you describe a binibini?

The word binibini is one of the older words in the Tagalog lexicon that was originally used to refer to a young and unmarried female of high standing.

The word has lost its noble meaning in modern usage; still, it conjures an image of a Filipina that’s soft-spoken, mild-mannered, and has admirable physical attributes. 

But just like the word, the Filipina herself has evolved to become so much more than what society expects her to be.

Today, the binibini is not just a head turner – she’s also passionate, tough, and driven to excel.

The binibini of the 21st century 

Filipinas have been defying stereotypes for a long time, and this is what San Mig Light seeks to highlight in their latest web film, “Binibini.”

It’s a recreation of San Miguel’s iconic 2002 TV commercial of the same title, but with a twist.

“Binibini,” which was conceptualized and produced by a team of female professionals, starts by showing five beautiful Filipinas preparing for their day ahead. But quickly, we see that these are no ordinary women.

They are Rome Trinidad, a medaled MMA (mixed martial arts) fighter; Mary Diane Lesiguez, a licensed chemical engineer and environmental management specialist; Jessa Bondoc, a firefighter from the San Juan City Fire Station; Chezka Gonzales-Garrido, a licensed pilot who flies private planes; and Charmaine Gallardo, Jennifer De Vera, and Rachel Sasing of the acclaimed classical guitar ensemble Triple Fret.

While both “Binibini” videos showcase the beauty of Filipinas, the modern version empowers and takes a step further by showing that the Filipina is no longer defined only by how she looks and behaves. 

Where the binibini’s place used to only be the home, modern binibinis are now everywhere, proving to the world her worth even in traditionally male-dominated arenas.

So, how would YOU define a binibini? Now that’s something to talk about over a cold bottle of beer or two on your next barkada night out. – Rappler.com