P-Pop boy group GAT member Ethan David has spoken up again in response to mounting hate comments and accusations surrounding a viral video involving him and several members of the girl group BINI.
The video, which sparked public backlash, featured what many interpreted as inappropriate jokes referencing a minor.
On Wednesday, May 15, Ethan released a formal statement via Instagram, denying all allegations of misconduct.
“Let me be clear… I have NEVER been involved in any inappropriate relationship with a minor, and I will never tolerate nor condone such behavior. I have always been firmly against it,” Ethan wrote. “The accusations being made are not only baseless but extremely damaging.”
The controversy stems from a video clip circulating online, which showed Ethan and fellow GAT member Shawn Castro engaging in playful behavior, with off-camera voices—allegedly from BINI members Jhoanna, Colet, and Stacey—jokingly referencing someone being 13 years old. This prompted allegations from netizens that the group was making light of grooming.
However, Ethan clarified that the entire situation was misunderstood. “To clarify the confusion surrounding the video, the joking comments heard in the video led to a misunderstanding that I was grooming a 13-year-old. In reality, I was the 13-year-old being referred to,” he explained.
He further revealed that the situation in question dates back to his early teenage years in Canada, describing it as an instance of “innocent puppy love.”
Ethan also apologized to his loved ones affected by the controversy: “I sincerely apologize to my family, friends, and everyone hurt or confused by this issue. It was never my intention to cause harm or offense.”
The viral video, which appeared to be heavily edited or spliced, also prompted backlash against the involved BINI members. Some fans have defended the group, stating the clip was taken out of context and does not reflect the full story. BINI, along with Ethan and Shawn, previously issued public apologies over the incident.
