MANILA, Philippines – A week after P-pop girl group BINI apologized for a controversial viral video involving three of its members, GAT’s Ethan David has come forward to air his side.

In a statement posted on his social media platforms on Thursday, May 15, Ethan said he has been receiving hate from online users for the past few days. This, he says, has affected his mental health and prompted him to speak up, especially so he could clear the “false narratives” that have been circulating online.

“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. The accusations being made are not only baseless but extremely damaging,” Ethan said.

The viral video showed Ethan and the group’s other male friend, dancer Shawn Castro, acting out a sexually suggestive scenario in front of BINI’s leader, Jhoanna. Members Stacey and Colet were also present.

“‘Yan ‘yung ginagawa niya kay Ashley (That’s what he does to Ashley),” someone said off-camera, with another confirming that the certain “Ashley” they were referring to was a 13-year-old. 

Online users were quick to slam those involved in the video for allegedly joking about inappropriate behavior towards a minor.

In his recent statement, however, Ethan clarified that he was the 13-year-old being referred to in the video.

“The situation being discussed dates back to a time when I was a young teenager experiencing innocent puppy love during my time in Canada,” said Ethan, refusing to name the individual to respect their privacy.

“I want to emphasize that it was nothing more than a harmless, age-appropriate childhood experience,” he continued.

The 22-year-old P-pop idol then apologized again, and vowed to move on from the issue with “greater awareness and respect.”

On the same night BINI issued their apology on May 8 — stating that the video showed a private moment of them with friends — Ethan also posted his own statement through VIVA Artists’ Agency, and said he would take full responsibility for his actions.

His mother, Lady Maridel David, commented on the statement and said the video was taken out of context. She, however, said that her son acknowledges his actions.

Ethan is a member of the P-pop boy group GAT. He also appeared in the hit series Ang Mutya ng Section E as Calix Rivera. – Rappler.com