The emerging Filipino boy group Play PH has been drawing attention on social media following mixed reactions to its live television performance of its original song "Crush Kita" on People's Television Network's (PTV) morning program Rise and Shine Pilipinas.
The group's performance, which circulated online beginning October 31, received criticism from netizens who questioned the members' vocal delivery and overall stage performance.
Some viewers pointed out that the group struggled with certain notes during the live rendition, while others questioned whether the members were sufficiently prepared for their television appearance.
Following the backlash, Play PH addressed the criticisms, explaining that three of its members were sick during the performance.
In a message shared on the group's official Facebook page, Play PH reminded its supporters that one performance should not define the group's overall capabilities.
The group also acknowledged the difficulty of performing live early in the morning, while expressing pride in the members for completing their performance despite their condition.
The issue gained further attention when the group appeared on GMA Network's morning program Unang Hirit, where the members discussed the viral performance and addressed the reactions from viewers.
During the interview, the members explained that their PTV appearance was their first television guesting, which contributed to their nervousness.
They also confirmed that some members were experiencing fever, colds, and other symptoms at the time.
Despite the negative comments, the group said it was choosing to take the criticisms positively.
"Motivation po, para mag-improve pa po," one of the members said when asked about their reaction to the online backlash.
Play PH subsequently returned to the television stage through its Unang Hirit appearance, performing "Crush Kita" again in what the program described as a comeback performance.
The six-member group introduced themselves during the interview as Play Travis, Play Gab, Play James, Play Kenji, Play Wesley, and Play Sean.
The members also shared that they were still preparing for their official debut, with more room to improve as they continue their journey in the local pop music scene.
