 |
| MNL48 Yana: From HR Manager to Idol Who Dares to Speak Out |
MNL48’s very own Yana (real name Leana Mariz Bince) has taken to Instagram to air her thoughts about the ongoing crisis in the Philippines — and it’s not your usual idol update.
Instead of posting just music and selfies, Yana decided to break the mould and speak about something much bigger: corruption.
For her, this isn’t a matter of politics but a question of conscience and a basic right every Filipino deserves to exercise.
“Voicing out against corruption is not a political stance but a basic right that should be encouraged and exercised by all. We’ve been patient enough. Let’s use our voices as one,” she wrote.
 |
| The Power of People - Philippines Protest 2025 (Photo: X/Special) |
In 48 Group, staying away from sensitive issues is pretty much the norm.
Public figures often get slammed or quietly blacklisted if they challenge the status quo.
But Yana has proven she’s not afraid to push past that fear, earning praise from fans who see her as an example of how idols can use their platform for more than just entertainment.
She admitted she can’t physically join protests in the streets, but emphasised that her heart is with the people fighting for justice and fair governance.
 |
Her words — urging everyone to stay informed, to ask questions, and to demand better — struck a chord with many.
What makes Yana’s story even more striking is her background.
Before stepping onto the idol stage, she worked as an HR and Operations Manager at a tech firm in Singapore, studied Interior Design, taught English, and held down various part-time jobs abroad.
Singing was her childhood dream, one she shelved for years until she got re-inspired after watching the Japanese drama Amachan.
That push led her to audition for MNL48’s fourth generation — and the rest is history. Now, she’s using that long-awaited platform not just to perform, but also to inspire.
Yana’s bold statement has drawn plenty of support from MNLoves (the group’s fandom), with many saying it’s refreshing to see an idol willing to stand with ordinary people. It’s a reminder that public figures can hold influence beyond music shows and fan meets.