Japanese rock band BURNOUT SYNDROMES, composed of vocalist and guitarist Kazuumi Kumagai, bassist Taiyu Ishikawa, and drummer Takuya Hirose, enthralled the crowd with their high-energy show at the Crossroad Center in Quezon City. Marking the 10th anniversary of their major label debut, the concert showcased a powerful 16-song setlist. It was the band’s first time in Manila, and judging from the extremely warm reception they received here, it seems like it would not be the last. 

BURNOUT SYNDROMES have made their mark in the anime community by producing high-octane, melodic rock tracks that became defining soundtracks to their respective series titles. In 2016, the band made their soaring debut with “FLY HIGH!!” which served as the opening theme of the 2nd season of the highly popular anime Haikyu!!, eventually becoming a fan favorite. From then on, their Haikyu!! connection flourished even more when their songs “Hikariare” and “PHOENIX” became the soundtracks for the show’s subsequent seasons. Maintaining this momentum, they also contributed tracks for Gintama (2018), Dr. Stone (2019), Super HxEros (2020) and Those Snow White Notes (2021). 

In turn, the Filipino anime fan community did their part as they filled the venue for the band’s first ever concert in Manila. Many were decked in their favorite team’s volleyball jerseys, holding out the mini character plushies and figures. Hours before the show, the band held photo-ops as well as a hi-touch session with selected fans. 

Opening act fuyu, a newly formed pop duo comprised of Fumiya and Yukan, heated things up with their mellow tracks like “Iikot ang Mundo”, “Dream Together” and “Sabay”. Hailing from Japan, the duo entertained the crowd with their friendly banter, and their sweet mix of Filipino-English- Japanese songs.

When BURNOUT SYNDROMES entered the stage, the first thing that Taiyu did was to raise his hands, motioning for the audience to stand up. People were more than delighted to do so, and they remained standing until the end of the show. Wasting no time, the band played instant fire-starters, including “BLIZZARD”, “Hikariare” and “Good Morning World!”.

“So empty your heart, ride the wind and get a running start. Hop! Step! Jump!”

The best way to describe BURNOUT SYNDROMES’ concert in Manila was through these precise lyrics from “FLY HIGH!!”. The proper way to enjoy their music was to let go of your inhibitions, and just let the music flow through you. Rightfully, the Filipino crowd hit the mark as they sang along and jumped to the songs. 

For their part, the trio’s synergy was astounding. Kazuumi Kumagai’s intense vocals soared and softened to the melodies, his riffs never faltering one bit. He took the time to speak to the crowd, if only to introduce a song or thank them. Bassist Taiyu Ishikawa was designated as the official Hype Man, pumping up the crowd’s excitement by constantly spurring on their cheers, and sometimes translating Kazuumi’s words. Drummer Takuya Hirose was a beaming presence at the back, keeping the heavy beats flowing from start to finish. The three of them relished the crowd’s overwhelming energy, and it was palpable in the way their music reverberated throughout the venue. 

BURNOUT SYNDROMES’ diverse musicality was also put on a much-appreciated spotlight. Except for their anime bangers, they have an incredible discography. “Mt. Wakakusa Starmine” highlighted the band’s creative take on the fireworks festival, infused with traditional Japanese instruments. “Elevator Girl” was a gripping narrative/rant song that was propelled by its angsty rap-like delivery. “Highscoregirl” emphasized their playful side as it incorporated the classic arcade elements like the infamous cheat code (up, up, down, down, left, right, left, right, B, A, start). Their lighter, more tender side showed in “Kimi no Tame no Music” (Music for You). They even have EDM-infused tracks in the form of “BABEL” and “ORIGAMI”.

To commemorate their 10th year debut anniversary, the band recently released a special cover album for Haikyu! on Haikyu Day, August 19. Taiyu acknowledged the anime’s great contribution to their musical career and called it the best volleyball anime ever. Filipino fans were in for a surprise as they played two songs from the album which were SPYAIR’s “Imagination” and Tacica’s “Leo”.

It wasn’t until near the end of the set when they played their number-one hit (thus far) “FLY HIGH!!” which Kazuumi called their trademark song. As if to fuel the crowd’s already off-the-charts excitement, the screen started flashing the Romanized lyrics. It was a wonderful moment when the entire crowd turned into a loud karaoke choir as the orange and yellow confetti rained down. 

BURNOUT SYNDROMES capped off the evening with the optimistic “Good Morning (New) World!” and with a promise to come back soon. 

Special thanks to Wish Us Luck Entertainment!

by Sandra Mae Laureano

A first anniversary is an unusual milestone in K-pop.

It arrives before a group has the benefit of hindsight, before careers can be measured in decades or discographies. Yet it is long enough to reveal something equally important: whether nine individuals have begun to grow into one team, whether their music has found people willing to carry it beyond borders, and whether the promise that accompanied a debut continues to gather momentum.

For AHOF, that question found one of its clearest answers in Manila.

Less than a year after debuting in July 2025, STEVEN, JEONGWOO, WOONGKI, SHUAIBO, HAN, JL, JUWON, CHIHEN, and DAISUKE arrived at the SM Mall of Asia Arena for 2026 AHOF 1ST TOUR: THE FIRST SPARK, the group’s first solo Asia tour. It was an achievement that many artists spend years working toward. Beginning in Seoul before traveling through Osaka, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, and Taipei, the tour reflected the confidence of a rookie group determined to prove that its debut was only the beginning.

Yet while the tour itself marked a new chapter, the Manila stop carried another story altogether.

The Philippines has become one of the few places where AHOF’s first year can be traced almost continuously. Filipino audiences first welcomed the group through RENDEZVOUS IN MANILA in August 2025, met them again during AHOF for LOVE in Cebu in February 2026, and now watched them return for their first arena tour. Each visit captured a different stage of their development. Looking back, those events feel less like isolated performances and more like consecutive chapters of the same narrative—one in which Filipino FOHAs have had the rare privilege of witnessing AHOF’s earliest evolution as it happened.

That history gave THE FIRST SPARK a quiet significance before a single song had even begun.

The concert itself justified the anticipation.

Rather than relying on spectacle alone, AHOF built the evening around the steady progression of its own artistry. Opening with “Ignition” and “We Ready,” the group immediately established the youthful energy that first introduced them to audiences. As the set unfolded through songs such as “Cosmic Underdog,” “The Universe,” “Never Lose You,” “The Little Star,” “Butterfly,” and “Everything is Love,” another side of AHOF gradually emerged—one marked by greater emotional control, stronger vocal confidence, and a willingness to let quieter moments speak just as powerfully as the high-energy performances.

The inclusion of songs from RUN TO YOU, their third mini album, demonstrated how much the group’s musical identity has matured within its first year. The special cover stages of IVE’s “BANG BANG,” BTS’s “I NEED U,” and EXO’s “Love Me Right” further highlighted the members’ versatility, allowing different combinations of members to showcase their individual colors while reinforcing the cohesion of the group as a whole.

What stood out most, however, was not simply the ambition of the setlist.

AHOF has become an exceptionally capable live group.

Their vocal performances remained remarkably stable throughout the evening, even during choreography that demanded constant movement. Harmonies felt natural rather than calculated, allowing each member’s tone to complement the next without overpowering it. The confidence with which they navigated transitions between songs reflected countless hours spent refining not only technique but also trust in one another.

That trust may be AHOF’s greatest strength.

Watching AHOF today offers a different experience from watching them a year ago. Their growth extends beyond cleaner choreography or more assured vocals. It is reflected in the confidence with which they command the stage, the balance they maintain between individual expression and group precision, and the ease with which they move through a demanding setlist. The result is a performance that feels less like nine talented individuals sharing a stage and more like a group that has developed a distinct artistic identity together.

The members themselves acknowledged as much.

During the closing ment, what remained after nearly three hours of music was not the exhilaration of performance but the honesty of reflection.

Steven admitted that he arrived in the Philippines carrying considerable nervousness, only to find that hearing FOHAs during soundcheck gave him the confidence he needed. More tellingly, he thanked his fellow members for helping him through those emotions, expressing his hope that regardless of what challenges or successes lay ahead, they would continue facing them together.

Han spoke candidly about the difficulties the group encountered throughout its preparations and promotions. There were moments, he revealed, when they realized that without relying on one another, continuing forward would have been much harder. It was a simple admission, but one that offered perhaps the clearest glimpse into what the group’s first year has truly demanded behind the scenes.

Jungwoo shared that seeing every seat occupied by FOHAs left him struggling to hold back tears throughout the concert. Shuaibo confessed that performing in an arena of this scale had once existed only as a dream, making the reality of standing before thousands of supporters almost overwhelming. Woongki described the evening as one of the most important memories of his life, while Daisuke, Juwon, and Chihen each promised to continue working harder, expressing gratitude that fans believed in them enough to return that effort with unwavering encouragement.

JL perhaps captured the spirit of AHOF most clearly when he reflected on finding people he wanted to spend his life with—not only within the group but also among the community that had grown around them. His hope that they would remain together regardless of what the future holds resonated because it echoed a sentiment expressed repeatedly throughout the evening: that AHOF’s greatest achievement has never been measured solely by accomplishments, but by the people with whom those accomplishments are shared.

If the members gave the concert its heart, Filipino FOHAs gave it its atmosphere.

The fan projects prepared both inside and outside the arena reflected weeks of careful planning, while the energy inside the venue never wavered from the opening performance to the final bow. Every song was met with enthusiastic chants, every introduction with warm applause, and every heartfelt confession with a response that assured the members they were being heard.

Perhaps the most moving aspect of the evening was how naturally gratitude flowed in both directions.

The members repeatedly thanked the audience for believing in them. The audience, in return, responded with cheers that seemed determined to remind AHOF exactly why those words mattered.

There was no sense that appreciation belonged only to one side.

Instead, the concert unfolded as an ongoing conversation between artists still discovering how far they could go and fans who have chosen to walk alongside them from the very beginning.

That is what makes the Philippines such a meaningful chapter in AHOF’s first year.

Few overseas audiences have had the opportunity to witness the group’s development across multiple milestones in such a short period of time. Filipino FOHAs first met them as hopeful rookies introducing themselves to a new audience. Months later, they welcomed a group returning with greater confidence. By the time THE FIRST SPARK reached Manila, they were applauding artists capable of commanding one of the country’s premier concert venues with remarkable poise.

The transformation was unmistakable—not because AHOF had become different people, but because they had become more fully themselves.

That authenticity remains one of the group’s defining qualities. Even as their stages become larger and their schedules busier, the members continue to speak with a humility that feels increasingly rare. Nearly every closing remark centered not on celebrating what they had accomplished, but on promising to improve further. Success, for AHOF, does not appear to signal arrival. It signals responsibility.

That mindset may ultimately explain why THE FIRST SPARK resonated so deeply.

The concert celebrated impressive vocals, polished performances, thoughtful production, and the unmistakable chemistry of nine artists who continue to raise one another’s standards. At the same time, it served as a reflection of everything that has shaped AHOF during its first year: perseverance through demanding schedules, faith in one another during uncertain moments, and the unwavering encouragement of FOHAs who have believed in them from the beginning.

Anniversaries often invite people to look back.

THE FIRST SPARK suggested something different.

It acknowledged the distance AHOF has already traveled while making it equally clear that the group still sees itself at the beginning of a much longer road. One year after their debut, Manila became the place where that belief was not simply spoken—it was performed, celebrated, and shared.

For AHOF, THE FIRST SPARK was the first major tour of a young career already gathering remarkable momentum.

For the thousands of FOHAs inside the SM Mall of Asia Arena, it was the privilege of seeing that momentum unfold not from afar, but from a place that has accompanied the group through nearly every defining moment of its first year.

In the years ahead, AHOF will almost certainly perform in larger venues, release more albums, and celebrate many more anniversaries. Yet their first year can only happen once. Manila now holds a lasting place in that story—not simply as another stop on a tour, but as one of the stages where the ambitions of nine young artists and the steadfast belief of their fans met at exactly the right moment, turning the first spark of a dream into something bright enough to illuminate everything still waiting beyond the horizon.

After almost two years, K-pop girl group superstars ITZY returned to Manila for their 3RD WORLD TOUR <TUNNEL VISION> on July 11, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Performing to a crowd of roaring Filipino MIDZYs, Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna delivered an electrifying showcase, proving once again why they reign supreme as stage-mastery queens.

As soon as the opening visual intro hit the massive arena screens, the atmosphere was supercharged. ITZY kicked off the night with their powerful vocals, electrifying choreography, and sharp synchronization, immediately captivating fans. The renowned K-pop girl group performed some of their chart-topping hits, including “Tunnel Vision,” “That’s A No No,” “Girls Will Be Girls,” “WANNABE,” “Imaginary Friend,” “LOCO,” “GOLD,” “Not Shy,” “8-Bit Heart,” and more. The tour also gave the members a chance to showcase their individual stages, performing their solo tracks from their 12th EP, MOTTO: Lia’s “Asylum,” Yuna’s “Tangerine,” Yeji’s “Pocket,” Chaeryeong’s “Undefined,” and Ryujin’s “Look.”

During ITZY’s heartfelt ments, the members took time to cherish the precious and unforgettable moments with their beloved MIDZY.

“From the soundcheck to the concert, why is your energy so high? Because it’s been a while since we’ve met, I wanted to pour my heart into our performances… Thank you for all the love. Stay healthy until the next time we meet again. Masaya kami!” Yuna shared, overwhelmed by Filipino fans’ unstoppable energy throughout the show.

“We were continuously surprised and felt so happy today. If you’re always like this, we can’t do anything but come back! MIDZY, kayo ang pinakamagaling! Salamat po!” Chaeryeong expressed, grateful for the fans’ overwhelming support. She also promised that ITZY would return often because Filipino MIDZY’s energy is truly unmatched and one of a kind.

“I can say that you are the TOP 1 when it comes to cheers! Thank you for coming today! We received so much energy and love, and because of that, we can successfully finish this tour. Once again, thank you for coming and for loving us. Salamat po!” Ryujin acknowledged the deafening cheers from Filipino MIDZY and thanked them for their warmth and unwavering support.

“It’s been a long time, and it feels very good to be back here with the members and our fans. Thank you for always cheering for us and filling up this space. I also agree with Ryujin that you have the best energy. While I was singing and dancing on stage, I could see your emotions and how much you enjoyed the show. I hope to see you all again very soon. Stay healthy.” Lia shared, touched by the strong support and heartfelt cheers from Filipino MIDZY.

“First of all, I think I fell in love. It’s just us standing on stage, but we think you guys are way cooler. Today, we truly felt how much you cherish, value, and love us. Time flies so fast. Just like our MIDZY, I hope we can come back even sooner. We won’t make you wait long. Salamat po, mahal kita.” Yeji expressed as she felt the sincerity of Filipino MIDZY’s love and support, reflecting on how much strength and inspiration the group continues to receive from their fans.

ITZY expressed their deep appreciation for MIDZY, saying that the Manila stop gave them immense energy and some of the loudest cheers of the tour, making them truly feel the love and support of their Filipino fans. The members promised to return soon for another show in the Philippines, with MIDZY already looking forward to seeing their beloved group once again.

From the captivating VCRs and mesmerizing stage pyrotechnics to the impressive stage production, ITZY 3RD WORLD TOUR <TUNNEL VISION> IN MANILA was a spectacular night that showcased the group’s unwavering passion and unforgettable connection with Filipino MIDZY.

ITZY 3RD WORLD TOUR <TUNNEL VISION> IN MANILA was presented by Live Nation Philippines.

Words by Vinny Real

There is something almost contradictory about a Mitski concert.

It gathers thousands of strangers inside an arena, yet somehow feels as intimate as reading a page from someone’s diary. Songs that have long lived quietly through headphones suddenly exist in a room filled with people, but they lose none of their intimacy. Instead, they become heavier, more tangible, and more human.

On July 14, during her long-awaited Philippine debut at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, Mitski offered Manila something far beyond a concert. She created a space where vulnerability was not something to hide but something to embrace—a space where sadness, longing, joy, uncertainty, and nostalgia were allowed to exist together without explanation.

In an era where live performances are often measured by spectacle, pyrotechnics, and elaborate productions, Mitski reminded audiences that one of the most powerful things an artist can do is simply tell the truth.

From the opening notes of “In a Lake,” the atmosphere inside the arena quietly transformed. Conversations faded, phones lowered, and thousands of people settled into attentive silence. Mitski never demanded attention. She never needed to. She possesses the rare ability to command a room not through volume or grandeur, but through presence.

Watching Mitski perform is unlike watching most singers.

She does not simply sing her songs—she inhabits them.

Every measured step across the stage, every carefully timed pause, every subtle tilt of her head, every fleeting expression contributes to the story unfolding before the audience. Her movements are never ornamental. They are extensions of the lyrics themselves, transforming songs into living narratives that unfold in real time.

There is a theatrical quality to her performance, but not in the traditional sense. Theater often asks audiences to suspend disbelief. Mitski does the opposite. She strips every performance down to its emotional core until what remains feels undeniably real.

Her voice carries the music, but her body carries the emotions.

For nearly two hours, she invited thousands of people into moments of reflection. Songs became memories. Lyrics became conversations people had once struggled to have with themselves. The arena gradually transformed into a place where emotions that often remain hidden were given permission to exist freely.

Perhaps that is what makes experiencing Mitski live so profoundly different.

Her music has always encouraged listeners to recognize complicated feelings rather than suppress them. Seeing those songs performed in person only deepens that experience. She does not ask audiences to leave happier than they arrived. Instead, she reminds them that every emotion—no matter how uncomfortable—is worthy of acknowledgment.

That honesty resonated throughout a thoughtfully constructed 26-song setlist that moved effortlessly between older fan favorites and more recent releases. Beginning with “In a Lake,” the evening unfolded through songs including “Cats,” “Working for the Knife,” “Buffalo Replaced,” “Dead Women,” “I Bet on Losing Dogs,” “Heaven,” “Circle,” “Washing Machine Heart,” “Dan the Dancer,” “Francis Forever,” “Stay Soft,” “Two Slow Dancers,” “Lightning,” “My Love Mine All Mine,” “Nobody,” and “That White Cat,” before closing with an encore performance of “Pearl Diver.”

Rather than feeling like a collection of individual songs, the setlist unfolded as one continuous emotional journey, each piece naturally leading into the next.

Equally remarkable was the restraint of the production itself.

The stage remained simple throughout the evening, allowing Mitski to remain the unmistakable focal point. There were no extravagant stage effects or elaborate set pieces competing for attention. Instead, carefully curated film sequences and cinematic visuals appeared across the screens, quietly expanding the emotional world of each song.

The imagery never distracted from the performance. It completed it.

Scenes drawn from films and evocative visual landscapes heightened the nostalgia, tenderness, and melancholy already present within the music. Rather than overwhelming the audience, the visuals served as gentle companions to Mitski’s storytelling, reinforcing every emotional beat without ever demanding the spotlight.

Like the music itself, every creative decision felt intentional.

The understated production reflected Mitski’s artistic identity perfectly—unassuming, deeply thoughtful, and entirely authentic.

As emotionally immersive as the performance was, it was the moments between songs that revealed just as much about Mitski herself.

Addressing the audience during her first-ever visit to the Philippines, the singer-songwriter admitted she was overwhelmed by the warmth she had received.

“Thank you so much for coming. Thank you so much for having us. This is my very, very first time in my life being in the Philippines. And it’s such a privilege to get to be here in order to play a show. That’s like a dream come true,” she told the crowd.

She went on to thank Filipino fans not only for filling the arena, but for the kindness shown to her entire team since arriving in the country.

“It’s really wild to see you all here when it is my first time being here. I’m just in awe. You’re all so welcoming. I’m so overwhelmed. Thank you so much,” she said, adding that every person they had encountered had welcomed them with generosity and humor.

It was a moment that reflected the sincerity that has always defined Mitski—not as a distant performer, but as someone genuinely moved by the people listening to her music.

Near the end of the evening, her gratitude became even more personal.

“Thank you for making me do my favorite thing which I love so much. Because you understand,” she said.

“I just can’t really believe it. I don’t know what to do with these feelings. I feel so grateful for you and I love you all so much. Thank you for being here. Thank you for showing me I’m not alone after all. Thank you for telling me that actually all my feelings are normal. I’m very blessed and you have blessed me.”

Those words lingered long after the applause subsided.

For years, Mitski’s songs have reminded listeners that heartbreak, loneliness, uncertainty, and hope are experiences we all carry, even if we rarely speak about them aloud. Onstage in Manila, those same songs returned that comfort to their creator. The relationship between artist and audience became reciprocal; the understanding she had offered listeners through her music was reflected back to her by thousands of voices gathered inside the arena.

Perhaps that is why Mitski’s Philippine debut felt so unforgettable.

It was never simply about hearing beloved songs performed live. It was about witnessing an artist whose greatest strength lies not in spectacle, but in honesty. Through music, movement, silence, and storytelling, she transformed an arena into a sanctuary where vulnerability became a shared language and where, for one remarkable evening, no one had to feel alone.

In the end, Mitski did not leave Manila with the loudest concert of the year. She left with something far more enduring: the quiet assurance that art, when created with sincerity and received with understanding, has the power to make thousands of strangers feel like they belong to one another.

Seven years is a long time to wait for a reunion. But for EXO and Philippine EXO-L, it only made the homecoming more meaningful.

When the lights dimmed and the opening notes of “MAMA” thundered across the SM Mall of Asia Arena, it felt as though time had folded in on itself. One by one, “Monster,” the haunting intro of “Wolf,” and “Overdose” followed, immediately transporting thousands of fans through more than a decade of memories. It was not merely the opening of EXO PLANET #6 – EXhOrizon—it was the beginning of a reunion that had been seven years in the making.

“Long time no see!” Chanyeol exclaimed. “It’s been a while. We really missed you, guys,” Suho added, setting the tone for a night built on gratitude as much as spectacle.

For Philippine EXO-L, this was the moment they had imagined countless times.

EXO’s history with the Philippines began almost as soon as the group itself was born. Fresh from their 2012 debut, they stepped onto the Philippine stage for the first time at the Dream K-Pop Fantasy Concert in January 2013. Three years later came their first solo concert in the country through EXO PLANET #2 – The EXO’luXion, followed by The EXO’rDIUM in 2017, The EℓyXiOn in 2018, and EXplOration in 2019.

In 2026, exactly ten years after their first EXO PLANET concert in the Philippines, EXO’s Suho, Chanyeol, D.O, Kai, and Sehun returned with the two-night sold-out EXO PLANET #6 – EXhOrizon, marking the group’s long-awaited comeback to Manila as a group after seven years.

Yet those years never truly felt empty.

Even during the members’ individual activities and solo concerts, Philippine EXO-L continued to fill venues, wave silver lightsticks, and cheer with the same unwavering devotion. Distance may have separated them temporarily, but the bond between EXO and their fans never weakened.

Perhaps that is why the welcome was deafening.

Sehun greeted the crowd in Filipino, asking if everyone had missed them before laughing at the overwhelming screams that answered his question.

Suho reminded everyone of EXO’s famous motto: “We are one.”

“If you enjoy EXO’s concert until the end,” he said, “I’m sure when the show is over we will be really one.”

Kai greeted fans with a heartfelt “Mabuhay!” before admitting that he had missed Manila dearly, while D.O. hoped everyone would create happy memories together that evening. Chanyeol, ever playful, effortlessly had the audience laughing with his familiar humor and very Pinoy charm as the “Pogi Chanyeol.”

From that moment onward, EXhOrizon became less of a performance and more of a celebration between old friends.

The second act shifted the atmosphere with “Moonlight Shadows,” while Chanyeol opened “Gravity” with a commanding solo dance before Kai captivated the audience during “Jekyll.” “CRAZY” closed the segment with explosive energy that kept the arena on its feet.

Between performances, the members never let the connection fade. They joked among themselves, laughed with EXO-L, admired the breathtaking Cosmic Latte ocean created by thousands of lightsticks, and even teased Suho into revealing a glimpse of his toned physique as the members hilariously helped him “properly” show it to the audience.

The third set brought some of EXO’s most iconic performances: “Playboy,” “Artificial Love” highlighted by Sehun’s mesmerizing solo dance, “The Eve,” and, of course, “Love Shot.”

Each performance reminded everyone why EXO has remained one of K-pop’s strongest live acts. Their vocals remained powerful. Their dances remained immaculate. And despite the individuality each member has cultivated over the years, they still moved together with remarkable harmony.

Following a costume change into casual outfits, nostalgia swept through the arena once again.

Rather than performing each song in full, EXO delivered an exhilarating medley of “Tempo,” “Ko Ko Bop,” “Call Me Baby,” “Power,” “Don’t Fight the Feeling,” and “Run” before treating fans to complete performances of “Love Me Right” and “Growl.”

The arena transformed into one massive chorus.

Suho paused during one of the night’s ment segments and simply looked at the audience. “You are so incredibly beautiful.”

The love was returned in kind. Chanyeol then led the crowd in singing “Raining in Manila,” delighting everyone with his appreciation for a song that had become deeply associated with the city. Moments later, EXO revisited one of their earliest Philippine memories through “Hawak Kamay,” a song they had famously performed during the 2013 Dream K-Pop Fantasy Concert.

“We really have a lot of memories together,” Suho reflected.

The nostalgia continued as EXO-L sang “Universe,” “Sing For You,” and “Love Shot,” proving once again that every lyric had remained etched into their hearts throughout the years.

“But really,” D.O. shared sincerely, “Manila, the energy here, the vibe, is just amazing.”

Emotion gently took over during the fifth set as D.O. and Suho delivered the heartfelt “Baby Don’t Cry,” followed by “Walk on Memories” and “Don’t Go.” Every note seemed to carry years of longing finally finding its resolution.

The atmosphere shifted once more as EXO returned in princely white ensembles for “El Dorado” and “Back It Up,” before launching into the concert’s climactic final performances with “Forever” and “Crown.”

As EXO poured their hearts into every performance on stage, Philippine EXO-L transformed the arena into a love letter years in the making. They prepared elaborate fan projects throughout the concert: the dazzling EXO Party Globe project during “Power,” “Don’t Fight the Feeling,” and “Run”; a heartfelt sing-along of “Peter Pan” before the encore; illuminated flowers in each member’s representative colors during “Back Pocket”; synchronized chants of “EXO, mahal namin kayo!”; and banners reading, “In every universe, our hearts are always with EXO.”

The members repeatedly admired the projects, calling the colorful ocean incredibly beautiful.

Then came the encore.

As “Back Pocket” filled the venue, fans responded with one final declaration.

“EXO, mahal namin kayo!”

Without hesitation, the members answered in unison.

“EXO-L, mahal namin kayo!”

It was perhaps the simplest exchange of the evening, yet it perfectly captured everything EXhOrizon represented.

Chanyeol thanked everyone for welcoming EXO back after so many years. “Babalik kami! Mahal ko kayo!”

D.O. admitted that because of the fans, he would surely have sweet dreams that night. Kai described the evening in one word: perfect. “Every single moment I spent with EXO-L is very precious to me.”

Suho promised that EXO would return and thanked Manila for making them feel truly loved. “I can feel that you really love EXO and that we are one. Mahal namin kayo.”

Sehun echoed the same promise, expressing confidence that it would not take long before they met again. “We will try to be back in the Philippines as fast as possible.”

As “Flatline” closed the evening, it became clear that EXhOrizon was never simply about a comeback.

It was about history.

It was about loyalty.

It was about promises that survived seven long years.

Looking back at everything that transpired between 2019 and 2026, it is no surprise that EXO’s return was welcomed with the loudest cheers and the brightest lights. There has always been an assurance that Philippine EXO-L would be there—in every universe, across every horizon.

And EXO, true to their word, showed up.

They returned with extraordinary performances, timeless music, breathtaking production, and the unmistakable chemistry that has defined them throughout generations of K-pop. Alongside songs from their latest album, Reverxe, the concert became a celebration of a discography that has stood the test of time, proving once again why EXO remains one of the industry’s finest performers.

More importantly, EXhOrizon became a beautiful reminder that “We Are One” has never been just a slogan.

It has always been a promise.

Now, both EXO and EXO-L hold onto another promise—the promise to meet again soon.

Because after all these years, all these stages, all these memories, and all these promises, one truth continues to endure.

EXO and EXO-L will always be each other’s always and forever.

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EXO PLANET #6 – EXhOrizon in Manila was presented by PULP Live World. Special thanks to PULP Live World for making this coverage possible.

This article covers the events of Day 1 of EXO PLANET #6 – EXhOrizon in Manila, held on July 4, 2026.

Their songs became anthems for a generation—capturing restless emotion, youthful defiance, and the evolving sound of post-hardcore. American rock band Saosin made a powerful return to the Philippine concert stage, headlining a monumental stop of their 20th anniversary tour on May 7, 2026, at the SM North EDSA Skydome for SAOSIN Asia Tour 2026 Live in Manila.

The Manila leg followed a high-energy kickoff in Cebu City, where the band first reconnected with Filipino fans—setting the tone for what would become a two-city celebration of their enduring legacy in the country. By the time they reached Manila, anticipation had reached a fever pitch, fueled by memories of their sold-out double-header in 2023 and a fanbase that had only grown more passionate over time.

This return carried a deeper meaning. More than just another tour stop, it marked two decades since the release of their self-titled 2006 album—a record widely credited for reshaping the post-hardcore and alternative rock landscape. In Manila, that legacy came alive in full force.

The night unfolded like a masterclass in precision and emotion. Staying true to the tour’s promise, Saosin performed their self-titled album in its entirety, delivering tracks like “Come Close,” “The Silver String,” “I Never Wanted To,” “Collapse,” and “Bury Your Head” with the same urgency that defined their early years. The band also treated Filipino fans to a special moment with the live debut of their new track, “Starting Over Again,” signaling that their story is far from over.

Inside the Skydome, the energy was relentless. “Voices” and “You’re Not Alone” transformed the venue into a massive sing-along, with the crowd nearly overpowering the sound system. But the emotional peak arrived with “Seven Years”—the song that launched Saosin into the global scene. As soaring vocals met a sea of voices screaming every lyric, it became clear why the band continues to stand as a pillar of the genre.

Presented by PULP Live World, the Manila show was more than just a performance—it was a reaffirmation of a long-standing bond between Saosin and their Filipino fans. From Cebu to Manila, the band’s return wasn’t just a celebration of the past two decades, but a powerful reminder that their music remains as urgent, visceral, and deeply felt as ever.

The SM North Skydome was already trembling before a single note was played. Hundreds of Filipino fans, many of them in band tees faded from years of love, armed with voices ready to break, had been waiting for this moment for what felt like a lifetime. When the lights finally dropped, and Hawthorne Heights took the stage, the room didn’t just erupt. It exhaled the way you do when something you’ve needed for a very long time finally arrives.

The Ohio post-hardcore pioneers wasted absolutely no time. Opening with “This Is Who We Are,” the band announced their presence with the kind of conviction that only a group two decades deep into their craft can carry. The Skydome screamed in recognition, every word already written on the lips of the crowd before JT Woodruff even leaned into the mic.

“We Are So Last Year” followed, and the energy in the room doubled, a wall of voices rising to meet the band’s signature interplay of jagged guitars and raw, aching melody. By the time “Language Lessons” rounded out the opening salvo, the tone for the evening had been set in stone: this was not going to be a passive concert experience. This was going to be a communion.

Between songs, Woodruff paused to properly introduce the band to the Manila crowd. Though judging by the reception, no introduction was necessary. But it was what he said next that sent the first real wave of chills through the room. Speaking with the kind of warmth that only comes from someone who genuinely means every word, he reminded everyone why they were all there together.

“We’re only here for one thing only, play non-stop emo throwback!”

The crowd lost it. Because that is, without question, exactly what they got.

If the opening trio was a declaration, the second act of the evening was a full emotional reckoning.

“Pens and Needles” cracked the room wide open, its familiar urgency hitting like muscle memory for a fanbase that grew up on this record. “Saying Sorry” came next, and somewhere in the crowd, someone was definitely crying, and not even trying to hide it. “Dead in the Water” kept the energy coiled tight, while “I Am on Your Side” offered a moment of something almost tender amid the controlled chaos.

The band moved through “Breathing Sequence,” “Light Sleeper,” “Cross Me Off Your List,” and the fan-beloved deep cut “Where Can I Stab Myself in the Ears” with the precision of a group that has never stopped caring about how these songs land, because they know exactly what they mean to the people in the room.

But the emotional crescendo of the set came before “Decembers.” Woodruff stepped back from the noise for a quiet moment and spoke about the song’s meaning, a piece written about his wife, Niki FM, someone who isn’t just a name on a track but the person he has chosen, every day, for over twenty years. With her half a world away while the band was on tour, the weight of that distance was palpable in his voice.

“You guys are the reason we smile,” he told the crowd.

The Skydome held that truth for a second, and then sang every single word of “Decembers” back to him. If there were any dry eyes left in the building before that song started, there certainly weren’t by the end of it.

If the crowd thought the night was winding down, Hawthorne Heights had other plans.

They came back swinging with “Spray Paint It Black,” which jolted the room back to life with gleeful aggression. “Bring You Back” and “Dandelions” followed in quick succession, each one landing like a gift to a crowd that had been waiting years for this very moment. And then came “Niki FM”, the song, the name, the everything, delivered with every ounce of sincerity the band possesses, while the Skydome sang along with the kind of unified voice that makes you genuinely believe in the power of a shared song.

In a moment that stopped the room, the band also unveiled “Like a Cardinal,” a brand new track making its Philippine debut that night. For a crowd steeped in nostalgia, hearing something fresh from Hawthorne Heights felt not like a disruption, but like a promise: that this band isn’t just living in the past. They’re still building something.

Before departing for the final time, Woodruff addressed the crowd one last time, not with fanfare, but with the kind of sincerity that makes you believe every syllable.

“Thank you so much for singing with us! We promise it won’t take us another 20 years to come back.”

And then, as if to make absolutely certain no one was going home without completely emptying their hearts, they closed with “Ohio Is for Lovers.” The band barely had to sing a word. The crowd, already hoarse, already overwhelmed, already exactly where they needed to be, carried it straight to the rafters of the Skydome.

PULP Live World delivered, once again, an event that transcended a simple concert. What happened at SM North Skydome on May 6, 2026, was a reminder, vivid, loud, and deeply felt, that emo was never just a genre. It was always a community. A place for people who feel too much, who need somewhere to put it all.

Hawthorne Heights showed up, played every song as it mattered, spoke to their audience like human beings, and left Manila with the very thing JT Woodruff said they came for: a room full of people who got exactly what they needed.

Twenty years in, and not a step slower. If anything, they’ve only gotten more important.

Phenomenal South Korean girl group IVE returned to the Philippine concert stage for their world tour, SHOW WHAT I AM, last April 25, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Filipino DIVES, the group’s devoted fans, filled the arena with anticipation, as it had been two years since IVE’s last concert in the country. From showcasing what they had during their first tour, members An Yujin, Jang Wonyoung, Liz, Rei, Gaeul, and Leeseo have since developed a distinct flavor and identity with this current tour—showing who they truly are, both individually and as a group.

The stage, adorned with massive LED screens, bright lights, spark fountains, and laser beams, opened with IVE’s performance of “Gotcha,” instantly igniting the excitement of Filipino DIVES in the arena. The group also performed “XOXZ,” the title track of their fourth Korean EP IVE SECRET, for the first time for their Filipino fans. Captivating and enchanting, IVE sustained their unstoppable charisma through performances of “Baddie,” “Ice Queen,” “Blackhole,” “TKO,” “Holy Moly,” and “My Satisfaction.”

As IVE continued to explore their artistry and deliver their best to DIVES, this tour provided an opportunity to highlight their solo releases. Jang Wonyoung delivered a fiery performance of “Eight,” Rei charmed with the sweet, candy-like “In Your Heart,” Liz moved the audience with her heartfelt rendition of “Unreal,” Gaeul energized the stage with “Odd,” Leeseo impressed with the powerful “Super Icy,” and An Yujin showcased her unstoppable swag in “Force.”

IVE returned to the stage dressed in white fluffy coats with angel wings and pink glitter accents, revealing a softer and more playful side through performances of “Beats,” “WOW,” “Off the Record,” and “FLU.” Filo DIVES were completely smitten as the members moved closer to the crowd, interacting warmly with fans across the arena.

During their ment, the members introduced themselves in Tagalog one by one, further energizing the crowd as they showcased their charm in the local language. IVE expressed their joy at being back on the Philippine concert stage. “It’s been two years since we last visited Manila, and thanks to your warm cheers, we are back now with SHOW WHAT I AM,” shared An Yujin, clearly overwhelmed by the unwavering support of Filipino DIVES.

“If our previous tour was a moment to show what we had, this tour, SHOW WHAT I AM, is an opportunity to show you who we are,” Jang Wonyoung explained, emphasizing how the tour allowed them to reveal their evolving artistry. Rei added, “We really wanted to show you what IVE is as a team, so we prepared bold and slightly darker songs at the beginning—how was it?” prompting loud cheers from the audience.

“Two years have passed before we finally returned to the Philippines, but your cheers are still the loudest,” Gaeul said, thanking fans for their unwavering support. Leeseo noted that the tour challenged them to express each member’s unique charm, while Liz highlighted the effort put into preparing their solo stages.

As the show progressed, IVE unveiled gold-and-black outfits, signaling a bold and fiercer era. The group continued to captivate the audience with performances of “Attitude,” “Love Dive,” “Rebel Heart,” and “I AM.”

“Thanks to the passion of DIVES, we are having so much fun,” Leeseo shared, visibly delighted by the crowd’s energy. “The energy of DIVES is unbelievable!” added Gaeul and Liz. Meanwhile, An Yujin playfully asked, “Magaling ba kami?” prompting thunderous cheers and affirmation from the audience.

The show concluded with their latest release, “BANG BANG,” followed by encore performances of “Wild Bird,” “Supernova Love,” and “After Like.”

IVE has truly set the standard for brilliant performances and versatile talent that continue to captivate DIVES worldwide. Their electrifying energy, gripping performances, and magnificent stage production prove what makes them truly unique, authentic, and remarkable. IVE WORLD TOUR <SHOW WHAT I AM> IN MANILA was made possible by Live Nation Philippines.

Special thanks to Live Nation Philippines

Words by Vinny Real

SEVENTEEN triumphantly concluded the Asia leg of their “NEW_” world tour in Bulacan with a powerful, emotionally charged concert that celebrated their evolution, global dominance, and decade-long unbreakable bond with Filipino CARATs.

K-pop icon SEVENTEEN continues to ignite global stages with unmatched force, drawing approximately 840,000 spectators combined across in-person and online shows throughout their ongoing world tour, “SEVENTEEN WORLD TOUR [NEW_]”, an achievement that reaffirms their standing as one of the most formidable live acts in music today. With every city they conquer, the group not only performs but transforms arenas and stadiums into immersive experiences, where storytelling, music, and connection collide on a grand scale.

That energy reached a powerful peak on March 21, as SEVENTEEN successfully concluded the Asia leg of their “SEVENTEEN WORLD TOUR [NEW_]” at the Philippine Sports Stadium. Serving as the final stop of a sprawling tour that covered 29 performances across 14 cities since September 2025, the Bulacan show was a celebration of a journey defined by growth, reinvention, and unwavering connection with fans across continents. The Asia leg itself marked a triumphant return, capping off a historic touring year that placed SEVENTEEN among the world’s top three touring acts on Billboard’s 2025 midyear Boxscore and earned them the distinction of having the second-highest-grossing K-pop tour on the year-end chart.

“Just like the title of our world tour, it seems like we have opened a new world here tonight.”

SEUNGKWAN

From its earliest moments, “NEW_” made clear its intent to signal transformation. The tour’s title—anchored by the underscore (_)—represents an open space, a symbol of limitless potential and evolution beyond the group’s decade-long career. This philosophy was brought to life through a carefully curated setlist that blended fresh material from their 5th studio album Happy Burstday with reinvented versions of beloved hits, creating a show that felt both forward-looking and deeply rooted in their history.

The night in Bulacan opened with a visually striking VCR, drawing fans into a cinematic prelude before the members emerged, one after the other, to ignite the stage with “Bad Influence,” a sleek collaboration with Pharrell Williams. The track’s confident groove and understated swagger set the tone for what would become an evening of constant momentum. Without pause, the group launched into “HBD” and “THUNDER,” delivering back-to-back performances that married explosive choreography with larger-than-life production. “HBD” radiated celebratory energy, its vibrant soundscape capturing the spirit of rebirth and festivity, while “THUNDER” lived up to its name with booming instrumentals and electrifying formations that rippled through the stadium like a sonic storm.

As the show unfolded, SEVENTEEN showcased the full breadth of their artistry with the electrifying full-group performance of “Domino”, followed by a captivating unit stage and a series of dynamic solo stages. “Network Love,” performed by Joshua, Jun, The8, and Vernon, became a visual spectacle of precision and flow, each movement seamlessly triggering the next in perfect synchronization, echoing the track’s hypnotic rhythm. The solo stages, drawn from Happy Burstday, offered a more intimate look into each member’s individuality. Dino’s “Trigger” pulsed with intensity, driven by hard-hitting beats and razor-sharp choreography that highlighted his evolution into a commanding performer. Jun’s “Gemini” explored duality through shifting tones and emotive delivery, while Vernon’s “Shining Star” provided a laid-back yet introspective moment, its effortless cool underscored by thoughtful lyricism.

The emotional core of the concert emerged during “SOS,” a track whose urgent plea for change and resilience resonated deeply with the audience as its urgent message mirrors the complexities of the current global climate and the people’s ongoing drive for hope and progress. The crowd turned every lyric into a shared expression of solidarity, reflection, and the collective desire for a better future. The atmosphere grew even more poignant with “F*ck My Life,” a raw and cathartic expression of frustration and vulnerability that transformed the vast stadium into a shared emotional space. Closing this segment with “LOVE, MONEY, FAME,” SEVENTEEN reflected on ambition and identity, balancing polished production with introspective themes.

A shift in tone followed as the members returned with softer, more heartfelt solo performances. Joshua’s “Fortunate Change” enveloped the audience in warmth, while DK’s “Happy Virus” lived up to its name with bright, uplifting energy that had fans smiling throughout. Seungkwan’s “Raindrops” added emotional depth, his vocals carrying a lingering sense of longing. Yet the calm proved temporary, as the stage soon erupted into a fiercer atmosphere. The8’s “Skyfall” combined elegance with explosive movement, Mingyu’s “Shake It Off” exuded charisma and playful confidence, and S.Coups’ “Jungle” closed the solo segment with a dark, primal intensity that commanded attention from every corner of the venue.

The transition into the concert’s high-energy core came without warning. “HOT,” “HIGHLIGHT,” “ROCK,” and “HIT” arrived in rapid succession, each performance pushing the group’s stamina and stage presence to exhilarating heights. Flames, lights, and synchronized choreography converged in a relentless display of power, leaving the audience in awe. After delivering such electrifying stages, the members expressed their heartfelt gratitude to CARATs, whose boundless energy fueled them through even the most demanding performances, allowing them not only to complete the set with strength but to truly revel in every moment on stage. S.Coups shared, “I’m not lying. Today is the most enjoyable,” a sentiment that perfectly captured the synergy between SEVENTEEN and their Filipino fans.

That connection has been years in the making, and it shone brightly during the concert’s more playful segments. CARATs waved tiger paws in homage to Hoshi’s signature introduction, revisited earlier eras with a snippet of “MANSAE,” and erupted in excitement during “SNAPSHOOT,” a song that has grown into a beloved staple in the Philippines since their Be The Sun tour. The crowd’s enthusiastic response, particularly during our bunso, Dino’s iconic part, once again demonstrated the unique bond and history shared between SEVENTEEN and Filipino CARATs.

Further enriching the set were unit performances like the Hip-Hop Team’s “GAME BO1,” alongside special stages of CXM’s “For You” and DXS’s “Blue,” which also heightened anticipation for upcoming subunit activities of The8 and Vernon. DK added another memorable moment by opening “Rock With You” with a live drum performance, elevating the track into a full-scale rock spectacle that culminated in a breathtaking fireworks display lighting up the night sky.

As the concert moved into its final act, the atmosphere shifted into one of celebration and gratitude. During CARAT TIME, fans danced and sang along with Bongbongie, turning the stadium into a festival of shared joy. The encore began with “_WORLD,” “A-TEEN,” and “9TEEN,” as the members rode carts around the venue, closing the distance between themselves and the audience. This sense of closeness reached its peak with “To You,” a heartfelt serenade that served as a love letter to CARATs.

One by one, the members delivered their messages, expressing gratitude and promising to remain together through every chapter ahead. In response, fans raised banners declaring “SEVENTEEN FOREVER” and “SEVENTEEN, let’s be together for a long, long time,” messages that echoed throughout the stadium not just in words but in emotion. It was a moment of quiet understanding, a promise shared between SEVENTEEN and CARATs.

“I really received a lot of love and support from you guys today. I will not forget the gratitude in my heart, and will show you more beautiful things. I always say this, the reason I exist is because of CARATs. Because you listen to my music, the reason I get to dance and get to sing is because of CARATs. Thank you very much. Mahal kita.”

DINO

“Whether in solos, in units, and in different types of forms, we will make sure to reach you. Please continue to support us. I myself will do my best. Remember, the 13 members of SEVENTEEN will never separate. Mahal kita! I love you!”

S.COUPS

“I’m glad we get to spend the last stop with you guys… By the next time we come back to the Philippines, hopefully, it will all be the 13 of us. Like S.Coups said, we’ll never be apart. All 13 of us are gonna stay together forever…”

JOSHUA

“Thank you for filling up this stadium tonight. Thanks to you all, we had a lot of beautiful memories and really enjoyed today… We will make sure to do our best in our own position, in our own place. In the future, we will be complete once again.”

THE8

“This is the last stop for our Asia tour. Honestly, I’m just so happy that it was the Philippines… Hopefully, we can see each other again… You guys are so beautiful. Thank you so much…”

VERNON

“Philippine CARATs are the best! Thanks to you guys I can say we had the best day today… Through the tour we had together, we were so happy. I will never forget today. I hope you guys continue to cherish the memory we made tonight. Magkita tayo ulit. Mahal kita!”

DK

“I had so much fun today, everyone… I want to meet more CARATs from all over the world continuously. I hope you continue to love all SEVENTEEN members. Please be healthy and stay happy. Thank you so much. I love you so much. I’ll always miss you so much. Pilseung!”

MINGYU

“Honestly, when we started this tour with nine members, we were worried we wouldn’t be able to fill the void of the four members who were not with us. But we did our best to fill the gaps. Those worries disappeared because of you. Thank you to everyone for filling up such big stadium. Like what Kuya Coups said a while ago, it will take a while before you see us complete, but we will come back cooler than ever. So I hope our CARATs can stay healthy and happy. Please continue to love whatever our members will do… Thank you so much for today. Mahal kita! Salamat po!”

SEUNGKWAN

“Thank you very much to all the CARATs who came today. Salamat po… Once there was a fan who told me a line from a children’s book, ‘I love you to the moon and back.’ We started together, and in the future, we will once again meet each other under the moon. Please stay healthy.”

JUN

But SEVENTEEN ensured the night would end not in stillness, but in celebration. The encore transformed into a full-blown party with “EYES ON YOU” and the ever-iconic “AJU NICE,” extending into a 30-minute finale that included “LEFT & RIGHT,” “CLAP,” “MARCH,” “SUPER,” “DON QUIXOTE,” “TOGETHER,” “FIGHTING,” and “WATER.” It was a joyous explosion of sound and movement, a fitting conclusion to a night that had encompassed every facet of SEVENTEEN’s artistry.

For a decade, the Philippines has remained a constant presence in SEVENTEEN’s journey. From their Shining Diamond Asia tour in 2016, Diamond Edge in 2017, Ideal Cut in 2018, and Ode to You in 2020, each visit has deepened a connection that continues to grow stronger. Their reunion with Filipino CARATs during Be The Sun in 2022, their historic performances in Bulacan, and subsequent milestones with FOLLOW TO BULACAN and RIGHT HERE have all contributed to a shared legacy that is uniquely their own.

This year, SEVENTEEN added yet another milestone by becoming the first artist to stage three consecutive concert tours at the Philippine Sports Stadium, further solidifying the country’s place as a cornerstone of their global touring history. Every visit writes a new chapter, painted in rose quartz and serenity, the official colors that now symbolize a bond built on passion, joy, and unwavering support.

Globally, SEVENTEEN’s impact continues to expand. With millions of total attendees across their tours, historic performances at major international festivals, and consistent recognition on global charts, they stand firmly among the world’s elite musical acts. Yet beyond the accolades and records, it is their ability to connect genuinely and deeply with their fans that defines their legacy.

As the “NEW_” world tour approaches its final chapter with encore shows at Incheon Asiad Main Stadium, anticipation continues to build. Tickets for the encore sold out during the first day of fan club pre-sale, a testament to the enduring demand for SEVENTEEN’s live performances.

From past to present, and into whatever the future may hold, one truth remains unwavering—on every stage, in every city, and in every shared moment: It is always only SEVENTEEN.

On February 28, 2026, Chen returned to Manila for a night that felt less like a standard stop on a tour and more like a meeting point between artist and audience, memory and moment.

Presented by Three Angles Production at EVM Convention Center, the show gathered Filipino EXO-Ls and Soondingies for an evening that quickly proved why Kim Jongdae remains one of K-POP’s most respected vocalists. Here is a recap of what happened during one of the best fan concert experiences in recent memory.

Manila Goes to Arcadia with Chen

There are singers who perform because it’s their profession, and then there are singers who seem most alive the moment they begin. Chen has long belonged to the latter category. By now, it’s  almost redundant to say he is one of the best singers in K-POP, but evenings like this explain why that reputation has endured. He does not merely arrive onstage with technique. He arrives with joy. It’s visible in the way he inhabits every line, in the ease with which he carries a melody, and in the unmistakable sense that singing is not a task to him but a home.

That ease has been tested in venues far larger than this one. Chen is no stranger to arenas and stadiums, whether as a member of EXO or as a soloist in his own right. He knows how to send his voice to the back of a cavernous hall and make it land with force. What made this concert special was not scale but intimacy. In a smaller setting, the performance revealed something more personal. The distance between artist and fan narrowed, and what might have been merely impressive in a larger venue became immediate here. The result was a concert that felt warmer, closer, and somehow more revealing.

He performed songs from his latest album, Arcadia, with the kind of conviction that made any need for spectacle feel irrelevant. There are artists who require elaborate choreography to sustain a stage. Chen does not. His voice and presence are enough. That is not an abstract compliment but an observable fact. He held the room through singing alone, letting the material breathe and allowing the audience to focus on what has always been his greatest strength, which is not just power, but emotional command.

The concert also made space for a different kind of energy. During a lively rock segment, Chen performed “Broken Party” and “Arcadia,” shifting the atmosphere inside the venue almost instantly. Fans who had spent much of the night listening in quiet admiration found themselves on their feet, singing along and letting loose.

The moment revealed another dimension of Chen’s artistry. While his reputation has often been built on emotional ballads and soaring drama soundtracks, the rock driven section showed that his range as a performer stretches far beyond those expectations. It was a reminder that Chen is not simply a master of one style, but a versatile artist capable of turning an intimate concert hall into a space of exuberant celebration.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening came when he stepped down from the stage and moved among the audience, inviting lucky fans across sections to sing with him during “Beautiful Goodbye,” his first single from his first mini album and one of the most streamed ballads in MelOn history. It was the kind of scene that could have gone wrong in less generous hands or with a less trusting crowd. Instead, it became one of the night’s defining images. Filipino fans, who have long taken pride in being among the strongest concert audiences anywhere, rose to the moment and sang with confidence. More striking still was the trust that made it possible. Chen did not need a wall of bodyguards behind him as he moved through the theater. He trusted the fans, and they returned that trust in full, making the moment feel not reckless but deeply mutual. Many artists are not brave enough to do that. Chen did, and the audience met him with care.

Chen also delighted the crowd with small but memorable efforts to connect with the audience in Tagalog. Throughout the night, he sprinkled in Tagalog expressions, enthusiastically saying “SOLID!” and “Lupet!” while gesturing with his hands in playful emphasis. Each attempt was met with loud cheers. With a respectful “Salamat po,” he expressed his gratitude to the fans, a simple phrase that carried warmth and drew the audience even closer to him.

To Our Captain

If the concert showcased Chen’s artistry, it also revealed the unusually close relationship he has built with Filipino EXO-Ls and Soondingies. What has become evident every time he returns to the Philippines is that the atmosphere here is different. The dynamic is looser, warmer, more mischievous. He gets teased, and he teases the fans right back. What emerges is a playful banter that does not feel rehearsed or carefully manufactured for effect. It feels lived in. Comfortable. Familiar. As if performer and audience have, over time, agreed to meet each other not only through admiration but through affection.

That comfort matters because it shows a side of Chen that fans in many other places may not get to witness in quite the same way. The Manila crowd does not simply receive him as a star. They engage him with a kind of easy closeness that brings out something lighter and more casual in return. For fans, that is part of what makes these local shows memorable. They are not only hearing one of K-POP’s finest voices. They are seeing a version of Chen that feels especially open in front of them.

The crowd, for its part, gave back with imagination and devotion. One of the standout fan projects of the night was a banner designed to resemble a microphone when folded, then open into the message, “Right here, right now, it’s our Arcadia.” It was clever, visually effective, and deeply tuned to the spirit of the concert. Filipino fans have long had a reputation for creativity, and this was another example of that instinct at work, not just decorative but emotionally precise.

The tributes did not end there. Fans also sang “Best Luck,” one of Chen’s most beloved OST songs, a fitting choice for a singer who has earned his place as one of the true kings of the form. The audience’s participation turned the song into something larger than a performance. It became a collective acknowledgment of the many ways his voice has threaded itself through people’s lives, not just through albums but through dramas, memories, and everyday feeling. A fan video added another layer to the tribute, humorously imagining that life without Chen would simply be more boring. Beneath the wit was something sincere. It reflected a fandom that knows how to celebrate with heart, and an artist whose presence has become part of the emotional texture of that community.

A Promise

By the time the concert neared its close, the emotional architecture of the evening was already complete. Still, Chen found a way to lift it one step higher. He ended the show with an impressive high note while singing “Best Luck” alongside the fans, closing not with distance but with togetherness. It was the right ending for a night built on connection.

He also took time to reassure fans about one of the event’s most remarkable benefits, which was the 1:1 selfie opportunity made available regardless of ticket tier. In a K-POP industry that often keeps idols and audiences carefully managed, that level of fan service remains almost startling. Chen made it clear that he was comfortable with it, that he welcomed it, and that he saw it as one way of thanking the people who have continued to support him. It’s difficult to think of many precedents for that scale of personal interaction in K-POP, and that rarity only underscored how generous the gesture was.

Before the evening ended, Chen thanked everyone who came and promised that he would return to Manila, echoing the same promise he made during his first fancon, The Door, in 2023, which was also held in an intimate setting. For those who have watched him keep building this relationship with Filipino fans, it did not sound like a routine farewell. It sounded like a promise made with intention. Fans can only hope that next time, he returns with his brothers in CBX. But even on his own, this concert already offered something extraordinary.

For EXO-Ls and Soondingies, being this close to Chen, hearing that voice in such a personal setting, and witnessing the trust and warmth that shaped the entire night felt like the kind of experience that stays with you. He remains one of the finest singers in the industry, but what made this concert unforgettable was not excellence alone. It was intimacy, humor, gratitude, and the rare sense that for a few hours, artist and audience were meeting each other on equal emotional ground. And if Arcadia is meant to suggest an ideal place, then Manila, at least for one night, came very close.

2026 CHEN Concert Tour <ARCADIA> Setlist
Intro + No Gravity
Fall In Love Again
Don’t Even Mind
My Dear
Deja Vu
Remember
Photograph
Don’t Remember
Starlight
Shall We?
Brighter than
You Never Know
Hold You Tight
In My Life
Before the Petals Fall
Playlist
Make It Count
Broken Party
Help Me (Somebody 2 Love)
Arcadia
Encore
Traveler
Beautiful Goodbye
Best Luck

Words by Arielle Elep

For one night in Manila, thousands of voices moved as one.

When Japanese rock powerhouse ONE OK ROCK returned to the Philippines for their DETOX Asia Tour 2026, the anticipation inside SM Mall of Asia Arena was electric. By the time the lights dimmed on March 4, the sold-out venue had transformed into a sea of glowsticks and restless fans ready to scream every lyric back to the band that had long felt like a lifeline to many of them.

For Filipino OORers, this wasn’t just another concert stop—it was a reunion. From the moment the opening video rolled into the explosive “Puppets Can’t Control You,” the night quickly established itself as something bigger than a standard rock show. The band—frontman Taka, guitarist Toru, bassist Ryota, and drummer Tomoya Kanki—launched straight into the anthemic “The Beginning” and the relentless energy of “Save Yourself,” igniting a roar from the crowd that barely let up all night.

It was immediately clear: ONE OK ROCK had returned to Manila bigger, louder, and more powerful than ever. Despite feeling under the weather, Taka powered through the set with unwavering intensity. His vocals remained as commanding as ever, effortlessly shifting between raw grit and emotional vulnerability. If anything, the challenge seemed to make the performance feel even more personal, strengthening the bond between band and audience.

That connection has always been at the heart of a ONE OK ROCK show. Throughout the night, the band balanced fan-favorite anthems with newer tracks from their latest era. The arena pulsed with energy during “Renegades,” while songs like “Party’s Over,” “Delusional: All,” and the heavier “C.U.R.I.O.S.I.T.Y.” showcased the evolving sound of their DETOX material. Filipino fans, ever passionate, proved they were already well-versed in the newer songs, belting out lyrics with the same fervor as the classics.

But some of the night’s most powerful moments arrived during the quieter emotional peaks. When the opening chords of “Wherever You Are” rang out, the arena transformed into a massive choir. Thousands of voices sang in unison, turning the love ballad into a goosebump-inducing moment that blurred the line between performer and audience.

Later in the set, guitarist Toru delivered a beautifully melodic solo before Taka paused to speak to the crowd with heartfelt sincerity. “ONE OK ROCK saved my life,” he said. “If these songs saved your life, you being here and supporting us saved our lives too.” The statement landed heavily in a room full of fans who have long turned to the band’s music for strength.

One of the evening’s emotional highlights came with “Tropical Therapy,” a track that balances chaos and calm while reflecting on the pressures of modern life. Performed live, it felt deeply personal—almost like a shared moment of reflection between the band and their audience.

Meanwhile, “Stand Out Fit In” brought one of the night’s most unforgettable crowd interactions. As the song built toward its climax, fans across the arena spontaneously sat down before erupting together into a wave of jumping and headbanging, feeding off the band’s energy in perfect sync.

Taka also took a moment to speak about the divisions currently shaping the world, offering a simple reminder to the crowd: respect each other’s opinions. In a time where differences often feel louder than common ground, the message felt fitting—especially inside a room where thousands of strangers were united by the same songs.

The night ultimately surged toward its explosive finale with “We Are.” The song, a rallying cry for a generation navigating uncertainty, had the entire arena chanting its chorus at full volume. It was less a performance and more a collective release of emotion.

As the final notes echoed through the arena, the band expressed heartfelt gratitude and promised they would return to the Philippine stage again. The crowd’s reaction, which is equal parts cheers and hopeful anticipation, made it clear that Manila will always be ready.

More than just a concert, ONE OK ROCK’s Manila stop felt like exactly what the tour’s name suggests: a detox. For two hours, fans shed the weight of everyday worries and existed in the music, the noise, and the shared experience.

And if the night proved anything, it’s that ONE OK ROCK still stands among rock’s most compelling live acts for their sound and the connection they continue to build with every stage they step on. For one unforgettable evening in Manila, thousands of people sang together and meant every word.

Words from Joey Dizon of PULP and Josiphine Tagudin of Philippine Concerts

American alternative rock musician Nathalie Lu, famously known as Wisp, graced the Philippine concert stage on January 28, 2026, for her If Not Winter tour at the SM North EDSA Skydome. Fans flocked to the intimate, one-night-only show to experience the magic of her electrifying sound and “lighter-than-air” vocals.

Wisp began her musical journey with her TikTok-viral debut single, “Your Face,” released in 2023, which eventually made its way onto the Billboard charts. She followed this with her debut EP, Pandora (April 2024), and her first full-length studio album, If Not Winter (August 2025). With a growing fanbase among rock, indie, and nu-gaze enthusiasts, Wisp has become a rising icon in the music industry, amassing millions of streams on major music and video platforms and selling out shows worldwide.

The show opened with Baguio-based alternative rock band TILAPAYASO, who set the tone with an energetic performance of their hits. When Wisp finally took the stage with her band, she delivered a night to remember, opening with songs like “Pandora,” “Enough for You,” “Mesmerized,” “Mimi,” and “Save Me Now.” Her heavenly vocals paired with an intoxicating alternative rock ensemble captivated the audience, and she continued to thrill fans with “Breathe Onto Me,” “Guidelight,” “If Not Winter,” and “Sword.”

Wisp closed the show with the heartfelt performances of “Black Swan” and “Your Face,” showcasing her dedication and passion for music. Before leaving the stage, she expressed her deep gratitude to fans for their unwavering support and for making the Manila stop of her tour unforgettable.

If Not Winter Live in Manila was proudly presented by PULP Live World.

On the evening of January 17, 2026, the Music Museum in San Juan City became a space defined less by spectacle than by atmosphere. South Korean singer-songwriter COLDE, on the Manila stop of his Blueprint+ Tour, offered a performance that was meticulous in its pacing and intimate in its emotional resonance.

Colde’s music has always straddled genres, R&B, hip hop, and indie pop, without ever feeling derivative. In Manila, that sensibility translated effortlessly. His songs were not designed to dominate the room, but to invite the audience into the nuances of his sound, where quiet melodies and intricate beats carry as much weight as any chorus.

The night opened with DJ Skope, a South Korean producer whose electronic and techno set coaxed the audience from their seats. By the time the lights dimmed, Colde entered quietly, dressed in understated streetwear, opening with “Toxic Love” and “Heartbreak Club.” Early in the set, he performed “When Dawn Comes Again,” a collaboration with Baekhyun, marking the song’s first live presentation on the tour. The song’s intricate harmonies and understated production highlighted both artists’ voices while immediately signaling that this stop would offer exclusive moments for the Manila audience.

Colde addressed the crowd briefly, noting that he had tried to learn some Tagalog for the performance, but found it unnecessary, given his comfort with English. The remark, modest and self-aware, reflected the kind of intimate connection he sought throughout the evening.

Midway through the set, Khakii joined him on stage. Known for his performances on Show Me The Money, Khakii delivered a series of rap sequences, including collaborative tracks “BASS” and “Juicy,” which contrasted sharply with Colde’s measured melodies. The interplay between the two artists underscored the careful pacing of the concert, balancing intensity and reflection.

Colde returned to the stage later in the set, introducing unreleased material and performing “Sunflower,” during which he handed crochet flowers to fans in the front rows. The gesture, small but deliberate, mirrored the intimacy of his compositions and highlighted the concert’s rhythm: emotional investment over spectacle.

The emotional apex came with “Star,” Colde’s contribution to the See You in My 19th Life soundtrack. As the house lights dimmed and phone flashlights dotted the room, the audience entered a shared, almost meditative space. Familiarity and immediacy combined, creating a moment that felt like both memory and presence.

The encore returned the energy to a kinetic high. DJ Skope resumed his set, Khakii rejoined Colde, and the trio closed with “All in Motion,” blending hip hop and electronic textures. The room responded physically as well as emotionally, moving with the music until the lights rose and the night concluded.

Across the evening, the Blueprint+ Tour in Manila demonstrated that intimacy and precision need not compromise impact. Colde’s ability to control pacing, navigate collaborations, and engage the audience created a performance that was both restrained and resonant.

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Photos and Words by Arielle Elep

It took a year and a half, but RIIZE finally made their long-awaited return to the Philippines for RIIZING LOUD in Manila last January 17 (SUN) at the Mall of Asia Arena, and the moment they stepped onstage, it felt like coming home.

Seeing Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton again was emotional in the best way. Since their RIIZING DAY fancon on July 14, 2024, PH BRIIZE had been counting down nonstop, and judging by the screams inside the arena, the wait only made everything hit harder.

The excitement didn’t even start with the main show. During soundcheck, the members surprised everyone by doing the “Wag Ipagsabi” TikTok challenge, taking turns and clearly having fun with it. Watching them naturally adopt a local trend, and then seeing them upload the video the next day, made us miss them almost immediately.

RIIZING to the Occasion

When the show finally began, the arena exploded. RIIZE kicked things off with “Ember to Solar,” then went straight into “Siren,” “Odyssey,” and “Combo.” It was loud, intense, and impossible to look away, an opening that made it clear they were back and better than ever.

Once they paused to talk, the energy shifted into something warmer. Sungchan shared how the crowd’s reaction made it feel real that they were back in Manila, and when RIIZE told BRIIZE how much they missed us, the response was immediate: a full-arena shout of “We love you, RIIZE!”

A Trip Down Memory Lane

Things softened with “Memories,” as the entire arena sang along like one big choir. It was one of those moments where you could really feel the connection between RIIZE and BRIIZE.

They kept the mood light with their Japanese tracks “Be My Next” and “Lucky,” then leaned into their sweeter side with “Midnight Mirage” and “Hug.” By the time “Love 119” played, hearts were definitely gone.

That “Pinoy-Coded” Rizz

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Manila show without some extra fan service. RIIZE is fully committed to the bit, delivering Tagalog pick-up lines that sent the crowd into full kilig mode:

• Sungchan: “Keyboard ka ba? Kasi type kita.”
• Shotaro: “Alarm clock ka ba? Kasi ginising mo ang natutulog kong puso.”
• Eunseok: “Siomai ka ba? Kasi I’mma siomai love for you.”
• Wonbin: “Ube ka ba? Kasi I only want U be.”
• Sohee: “Math ka ba? Kasi sa’yo ang bagsak ko.”
• Anton: “Water ka ba? Kasi my love for you is tubig (too big).”

Every line was met with screams, laughter, and the kind of joy that only happens at concerts like this.

From Soft to Wild

Riding that happy high, RIIZE moved into “9 Days” and “Show Me Love.” They slowed things down with “Honestly,” giving everyone a quiet moment to breathe before launching right back into the fun.

The energy shot up again with “Talk Saxy” and “Impossible,” turning the arena into one big dance floor. Then came the switch. “Fame” hit with all its emo, rage-filled intensity, and suddenly everyone was screaming their feelings out.

Just when we thought they were done surprising us, RIIZE pulled out a confident, charismatic cover of EXO’s “Monster.” The crowd lost it. From there, it was nonstop with “Bad Luck,” “Get a Guitar,” and “Boom Boom Bass,” before soaring into “Fly Up.”

A Promise We’ll Wait For

Before the encore, it was BRIIZE’s turn to give back. As the lyrics to “Inside My Love” filled the screens, the arena showed off the famous Filipino Throat Chakra, singing at full volume from start to finish.

As always, the end came too fast. RIIZE closed the night with “The End of the Day” and “One Kiss,” waving goodbye with the softest smiles and countless “Salamat po.”

It felt less like a goodbye and more like a promise, one that we’ll be waiting for, hopefully at an even bigger venue next time.

South Korean artist and member of renowned K-pop girl group Red Velvet, WENDY, returned to the Philippines for her first solo tour <W:EALIVE> last January 17, 2026, at the New Frontier Theater, officially concluding her tour with Manila as her last stop.

Blue lights representing her color, and pastel coral from the mandubongs of fans in the crowd, perfectly illuminated the theater with a sea of dreamy lights, looking like little fireflies among the audience. As soon as Wendy went centerstage, fans went wild and got excited to see Wendy again performing for her fans in Manila.

The opening stage was prepared with nothing but a sincere heart as Wendy sang her songs “Fireproof,” “Hate²,” and “Queen of the Party.” Wendy felt the surge of energy from her fans, saying that with their loudest cheers, she couldn’t even hear herself with her in-ear. Wendy continued to show her greatness through her music as she performed more of our favorite songs, such as “Why Can’t You Love Me,” “Best Ever,” “Chapter You,” “His Car Isn’t Yours,” “Better Judgment,” and “Vermillion.”

Wendy couldn’t seem to get enough of Manila as she shared a few memories from her arrival, her favorite Filipino dishes, and her plans for vacation in the country. Among her stories, she recounted her arrival in Manila the night before her concert and how her fans prepared food for her, which she shared with her staff, saying that she had tried Jollibee’s menu and enjoyed it a lot. Apart from that, Wendy mentioned ordering Filipino cuisine adobo from her hotel’s room service as she always made sure to eat it when she visited Manila. A true foodie herself, Wendy said she will try halo-halo and Llaollao the next time she visits for a vacation in the country.

The concert tour VCR highlighted some behind-the-scenes footage of her tour preparations, and also showed how grateful she is to her fans. Wendy mentioned writing her memories in a diary and keeping them vividly remembered through photos, as the feelings from those moments come alive again. “Thank you for always being by my side,” Wendy gave a sincere and utmost gratitude to her fans who have always expressed their support and love for her.

As the show reached its peak, performing with a 4-man band composed of amazing musicians Lee Byeongdo (keyboards), Youn Gapyol (guitar), Jung Boik (bass), and Song Jaeyoung (drums), W:EALIVE truly kept the crowd alive and at the edge of their seats as Wendy continued to show an outstanding stage with “Like Water,” which was the title song of her very first solo album, “When This Rain Stops,” “Believe,” and her OSTs “Goodbye” from KDrama <The Beauty Inside,> “Because I Love You,” which she sang during her time during her SM Rookies days. “I sang it very well back then, but I wanted to show myself and the fans that I’ve grown so much as a singer skillfully and emotionally.”

Moreover, Wendy showed us an unforgettable OST medley still, continuing with “If I Could Read Your Mind” from KDrama <Yumi’s Cells,> saying that this song is quite different from her emotional ballads as this song is an upbeat one with cute and lovely tones to it, “Two Words,” fromK-drama <Start Up,> and “Airport Goodbyes,” which was produced by The Black Skirts.

ReVeluvs were certainly feeling the nostalgia as Wendy sang “Light Me Up,” reeling the fans in as Wendy playfully changed the lyrics for the second chorus from “Oh, boy” to “Oh, girl.” “For my ReVeluvs out there, Light Me Up is a must song.” Wendy definitely lit up the theater as she also promised to return and perform more Red Velvet songs with her members in the future. Wendy finally reached her concert’s end as she performed “Wish You Hell,” “Sunkiss,” “Best Friend,” “The Road,” and “Existential Crisis.”

“Thank you, Manila [fans] for coming to my concerts… because of you, I can do all these things as a singer,” Wendy expressed her heartfelt gratitude to her fans who were all eagerly cheering and supporting Wendy since day 1.

Wendy’s fans prepared fanprojects for her return to Manila, which seemed like a homecoming for the queen that they have all been waiting for. From light wristbands, banners, and a surprise video compilation of messages for their beloved Wendy, they surely prepared so much, with these gestures making her Manila stop the best. With the warm hearts of the fans, Wendy returned for an encore, singing her songs “Vermillion,” “Hate²,” and “Wish You Hell.” When fans thought the night was over, Wendy went down the stage and personally met her fans who were seated in the crowd, making sure she sent them off well and thanked them with a heart full of love.

As Wendy’s world tour ended, she prepared a letter saying that “the most beautiful ending here in Manila” made her discover what happiness truly feels like and realize her dream, marking this tour as “the most luminous chapter” of her life as an artist, carrying her fans’ love like a torch that will illuminate her path moving forward.

<W:EALIVE> 2025 Wendy 1st Solo Tour in Manila was made possible by L-SQUARED PRODUCTIONS.