The management of MNL48 officially confirmed that 5th generation member Widalyn Pateña, popularly known as MNL48 Wida, has exited the Filipino girl group.
In an official statement released on February 22 on social media, the management shared that Wida will be leaving the group “due to personal reasons and health considerations”. No specific details regarding her health condition were disclosed.
Following the announcement, the MNL48 management acknowledged Wida’s commitment and passion during her time with the group, highlighting the impact she had made despite her brief stay.
“During her time with MNL48, Wida showed dedication, passion, and a genuine love for performing. Though her journey with the group was brief, she has contributed to the spirit and energy of the team, leaving a positive mark on both her fellow members and fans.”
“We sincerely thank Wida for her hard work, commitment, and the joy she shared in every performance, event, and activity. Her time as an MNL48 idol, though short, will always be remembered, and she will remain part of the MNL48 family,” the statement read.
The management also expressed appreciation to the fans who stood by Wida throughout her journey, while reaffirming their support for her decision.
“We also extend our gratitude to the fans for supporting Wida throughout her time with the group. We fully respect and support Wida's decision, and we wish her the very best in her health, personal endeavors, and future dreams. Though she is leaving the group, her contributions and spirit will always be part of the MNL48 legacy.”
Wida’s time with MNL48 was relatively short, having only been introduced as an official member in October 2025 during the group’s Dream Beyond concert.
After the announcement, fans and followers took to social media to express concern and mixed emotions over her departure.
“that's so sad 😢 pero I am still proud and support for wida 😘💖,” one netizen wrote.
“napakagaling ni Wida and I thought magiging center pa siya ng ibang upcoming single ng mnl48,” another added.
Meanwhile, Wida also shared a message addressed to her supporters, reflecting on her five months with the group, which she described as feeling like being in “Cloud 9.” She expressed gratitude to her fellow MNL48 members, as well as to the fans who supported her, assuring them that her decision would not end her dreams and that she would continue moving forward with a smile.
Along with her post, she wrote: “grateful for every moment that happened within my stay as an MNL48 member. i will forever remember this journey. thank you to everyone who supported me and MNL48. once again, i’m MNL48 Wida, signing off. maraming salamat po.”
Following her exit, all of Wida’s official personal social media accounts under MNL48 have become inaccessible.
The announcement also comes amid recent organizational changes within MNL48, with the group earlier revealing that its operating company name has shifted from MNL48 Inc. to P.O.S Inc., as announced last January.