Category: Concert Reviews

Last January 24, the SM North EDSA Skydome became the epicenter of music and empowerment as Gerald Santos took the stage for his highly anticipated solo concert, ‘Courage’.

The evening was more than just a musical spectacle—it was an inspiring testament to resilience and bravery, interwoven with the singer-actor’s powerful artistry and heartfelt advocacy.

From the outset, the concert set a bold tone with Gerald delivering a soaring rendition of Wicked’s ‘Defying Gravity’. Standing beneath the spotlight, he greeted his audience with a message of hope and enthusiasm: “It’s a great feeling to start the year with a concert in January. This is a special night of music, fun, and courage.” The energy surged as he followed up with a moving performance of Lady Gaga’s ‘Always Remember Us This Way’.

The theme of courage, which resonated throughout the evening, mirrors Gerald’s journey. Rising to fame as the grand champion of Pinoy Pop Superstar nearly two decades ago, he has since earned international acclaim for his portrayal of Thuy in the European production of ‘Miss Saigon’. His transformation from a young dreamer from Navotas to a global performer underscores the essence of the night—overcoming adversity and embracing new challenges.

A Movement Rooted in Bravery

Beyond the music, ‘Courage’ highlighted Gerald’s advocacy for survivors of sexual abuse and harassment. The concert coincided with the launch of the ‘Courage Movement’, a platform he spearheads to provide support and hopes to victims of such traumatic experiences. Reflecting on his own story of abuse at the hands of a veteran songwriter when he was just 15 years old, Gerald candidly shared: “When I came out in the open about what happened to me nearly two decades ago, I really felt naked in public. Those two words – courageous and naked – perfectly defined me.”

The movement also brought together others who have endured similar experiences. Actor Sandro Muhlach came with his father, Niño Muhlach, and his whole family to support Gerald Santos’ ‘Courage Movement’. Singer Enzo Almario, a survivor of abuse himself, joined Gerald onstage to perform Ben&Ben’s ‘Leaves’, creating one of the evening’s most poignant moments.

A Showcase of Artistic Excellence

Musically, Gerald’s concert was a masterclass in versatility and emotion. His setlist was carefully curated with heartfelt ballads, theater classics, and contemporary hits. A tribute to the late Liam Payne and Mercy Sunot saw him perform emotionally charged renditions of ‘Little Things’, ‘Halik’, and ‘Luha’.

He also revisited the defining moments of his career, delivering his signature pieces ‘Maghintay Ka Lamang’ and ‘Hanggang’ with his characteristic vocal brilliance. Fans were treated to a ‘Miss Saigon’ highlight as Gerald performed the hauntingly beautiful ‘Why God, Why’, a nod to the role that catapulted him to global fame.

Gerald was joined onstage by his namesake artists Erik Santos and Aicelle Santos, creating a powerful synergy that lit up the evening. Erik and Gerald brought the house down with their rendition of ‘This Is the Moment’, while Aicelle and Gerald showcased their chemistry from their ‘Miss Saigon’ days with Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga’s ‘Die With a Smile’. Together with Enzo, they also delivered an unforgettable performance of ‘When You Believe’.

Adding to the star-studded affair were Sheryn Regis, who dazzled with ‘Shallow’ and her powerful solo ‘Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw’, and young artists Elisha and Aster, who lent youthful energy to ‘Pantropiko’ and ‘Dilaw’.

A Bold New Sound

The concert also marked a milestone in Gerald’s musical journey with the release of his latest single, ‘Hubad’. Described by Gerald as a bold and daring departure from his previous work, the song embodies his desire to reinvent himself as an artist. “Perfect ang song na ‘Hubad’ for me. Cebu-based songwriter Feb Cabahug was even offering to pay me just to sing the song. But I told her there was no need to do that. I believe in the song,” he said of the collaboration.

With its sultry melody and introspective lyrics, ‘Hubad’ signals an exciting new chapter for Gerald. It’s the first of many tracks in a reinvention he hopes will captivate his audience and redefine his sound.

A Journey of Strength and Purpose

Closing the night with ‘From Now On’ from ‘The Greatest Showman’, Gerald left the audience inspired and energized. The evening was a triumphant celebration of courage, not just in music but in life. Through his unwavering commitment to his craft and advocacy, Gerald Santos proved that his artistry extends beyond the stage—it is a beacon of hope for those fighting their own battles.

The show was conceptualized, written, and directed by the brilliant Antonino Rommel Ramilo.

With ‘Courage’, Gerald Santos has once again solidified his status as one of the country’s most compelling performers, using his platform not just to entertain but to empower.

Words and photos by Jemuel Cainglet Salterio 

THAT FILIPINO LOVE IS REAL: The Philippine Sports Stadium radiated beautifully in the hues of rose quartz and serenity as SEVENTEEN reunited with their Philippine Carats to illuminate the local concert scene!

The South Korean boy band SEVENTEEN showcased their powerful presence and influence with their comeback concerts at the Philippine Sports Stadium on January 18 and 19 during the SEVENTEEN [RIGHT HERE] WORLD TOUR IN BULACAN. Attracting thousands of fans, the two-day show marked the beginning of the Asia leg of the boy group’s ongoing world tour, originally launched last year at the Goyang Stadium in South Korea. Since then, the 2024 Billboard Music Awards’ Top K-Pop Touring Artist has taken their fourth world tour to the United States and Japan. They will perform eight stadium shows across four Asian cities as part of the Asia leg of the tour from January to February.

A testament to the unwavering love and support of the fandom, who proudly filled the stadium last weekend, the concerts also represented the return of S.Coups, Joshua, Hoshi, Wonwoo, Woozi, The8, Mingyu, DK, Seungkwan, Vernon, and Dino to the Philippine concert stage after a year since they made history as the first musical act and K-Pop group to hold two consecutive performances at the Philippine Sports Stadium.

From the start to the finish, SEVENTEEN once again took control of the concert stage with their remarkable showmanship, captivating stage presence, charming personalities, and affection for their fans, all beautifully showcased alongside a visually stunning stage setup, strong teamwork from their live band and dancers, and an enthusiastic and lively crowd, creating a fun, aju nice show that would forge unforgettable memories.

With fans bursting with energy, resounding cheers, and lightsticks raised high, SEVENTEEN opened the eagerly awaited event with captivating performances of “Fear,” “Fearless,” and “MAESTRO.” Witnessing the sea of Carats—just like at all the venues where SEVENTEEN has performed in the Philippines since 2016—that had come to see them once more, Hoshi commented that every time they visit the Philippines, the Filipino Carats greet them with incredible passion and energy. “You guys are crazy,” the performance unit leader expressed, while DK added, “You are amazing, fantastic.”

The members, excluding Jeonghan who is currently serving mandatory military duty, and Jun who is engaged in various projects in China, reciprocated their Carats’ enthusiasm with an energetic greeting of “Say the Name, SEVENTEEN! Hello, we are SEVENTEEN!” followed by introductions where they marveled at the high-energy welcome from fans and showcased the Filipino phrases they had learned. The crowd also took the opportunity to wish Seungkwan, who celebrated his birthday on the 16th, a happy birthday, which he appreciated, and rejoined Hoshi’s horanghae agenda with proud tiger paws for the nag-iisang Tigre ng Carats. The concert marked the debut of BSS’ latest song in the Philippines, with BSS treating the audience to a glimpse of “CBZ (Prime Time).”

“I am very happy to do the first concert of 2025 in the Philippines.”

WONWOO

The boys wasted no time in captivating their fans with the eagerly anticipated performance of “ASH.” The Philippine Carats have demonstrated once again how a concert should be executed, receiving an A+ for their efforts. The stadium erupted with excitement as they passionately sang along to Vernon’s verse in “ASH.” Keeping the momentum going, SEVENTEEN performed their 2021 track “CRUSH” from the Attacca album. However, it was still too early to be left speechless, as SEVENTEEN had plenty more surprises in store that night, including unit performances by the hip-hop, performance, and vocal teams.

The members repeatedly reminded us of their profound talents and abilities as they confidently presented their skills in units. The hip-hop team ignited the stage with “Water” and “MONSTER,” while the performance team showcased the beauty of “Rain” and “Lilili Yabbay.” Fans were in awe of the vocal team’s enchanting performances of “Candy” and “Cheers to Youth.”

SEVENTEEN continued to tug at our heartstrings with a nostalgic group performance of “Oh My!”, paired with an adorable skit. They took us back to their origins in Sokcho from 2015, where a promise was made: “If anyone changes in the future, let’s come back and throw them in the water.”

The Philippines has been a witness to the evolvement of S.Coups, Jeonghan, Joshua, Jun, Hoshi, Wonwoo, Woozi, DK, Mingyu, The8, Seungkwan, Vernon, Dino, and the Philippine Carats. This nation has consistently been part of their journey, serving as a regular stop on all of their concert tours. The boy group first graced the Philippine concert stage with their two-day SEVENTEEN 1st Asia Tour 2016 Shining Diamond at The Theatre at Solaire, a grand auditorium with 1,740 seats. The Philippine stop was unique as it was the only location outside South Korea and Japan to host two shows. In 2017, they concluded their first world tour, Diamond Edge, at the MOA Arena. The following year, they returned to the arena for another Asia tour, Ideal Cut. Manila also served as the final destination for their second world tour, Ode To You, in 2020. Since then, they have truly achieved great strides.

Every time they return to the Philippines, they add a new chapter to the local concert scene’s history. In 2022, they made their return to the Philippine concert landscape with two nights of BE THE SUN in Manila concerts at the MOA Arena. A few months later, Carats greeted the boys with the loudest applause and brightest lights, filling the Philippine Arena with exceptional energy during BE THE SUN in Bulacan. Through BE THE SUN in Bulacan, they became the first K-Pop group to host a solo show at the Philippine Arena, the world’s largest indoor arena. Last year, they were the first musical act and K-Pop group to perform two consecutive shows at the Philippine Sports Stadium. Nine years after Shining Diamond, SEVENTEEN gathered thousands of Philippine Carats for another back-to-back concert at the Philippine Sports Stadium.

The audience was on their feet, holding Carat bongs, jumping in excitement to the music, fully immersed in every second and moment of their cherished boys’ performances. SEVENTEEN enjoyed themselves on stage along with their Carats while singing and dancing to “Snap Shoot.” The Philippine Superstar, K-Pop’s Now DI-NOW, and aming bunso, Dino, and Carats collaborated once more for his renowned verse, generating proud smiles and cheers from the group.

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A post shared by SEVENTEEN (@saythename_17)

With smiles and lively energy, the Gods of Music kept the celebration alive as the Philippine Carats exuberantly echoed “쿵치팍치, 쿵쿵칞팍치, 예” throughout the arena during “God of Music.” The members moved around the stage, reaching every area to get closer to their Carats during “Ima – Even if the world ends tomorrow.” They then acknowledged Team SVT before engaging in conversation with the audience.

The members were in awe of Philippine Carats’ rendition of Dino’s “Snap Shoot” part. Our bunso also impressed everyone with a spontaneous dance. Getting the baton from Dino, Vernon continued the freestyle dance. Joining in, S.Coups set the stadium ablaze with his freestyle moves. Determined to allow every member their moment, the crowd began chanting each member’s name, prompting the boys to cutely reply, “This is not a talent show, everyone. Calm down.” There may not ever be sufficient time for everyone’s freestyle dance, but there will always be a moment for The8. Minghao led Carats in making sure they were prepared to proceed with the show, holding their lighted Carat Bongs up high.

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A post shared by SEVENTEEN (@saythename_17)

After a light-hearted intermission, SEVENTEEN performed a magnificent version of “HOME.” The stadium paused, soaking in the moment as waves of emotion flooded over them during a full group VCR. With everyone ready to dive back into the performances, SEVENTEEN unleashed their latest hit “LOVE, MONEY, FAME,” the dynamic lead single from their newest album, SPILL THE FEELS.

The surprises and gifts for their Carats kept coming with unplanned mini-performances of their beloved tracks, including “Clap,” “Our Dawn is Hotter than Day,” “Mansae,” “_WORLD,” and “Circles.”

The atmosphere ignited when “MARCH” returned to take center stage. Carats erupted in enthusiastic cheers as SEVENTEEN brought forth the electrifying “Super” stage back to the Philippine Sports Stadium. With PING HAGO BULACAN ringing out powerfully, the stunning pyrotechnics display added even more thrill to the already intense performance.

SEVENTEEN returned to the stage for their encore performances of “Adore U,” “’bout you,” and “Campfire.” The boys navigated the stage, expressing gratitude to the Carats who attended the concert and shared their vibrant energy that night. They then settled down to share their closing messages, one after another.

The members repeatedly praised the enthusiasm and passion of the Philippine Carats, sharing admiration for their unwavering spirit and warm welcome. “Together with the heat in the Philippines, the passion in the Philippines is hot,” Vernon remarked.

Mingyu echoed Vernon’s feelings and vowed to repay their fans’ love with even better releases, promising to return to the Philippines to reunite with their local fans. “It’s been a long time since we came to the Philippines. Thank you so much for your energy. We missed you, and I’m happy we saw each other again. For sure, we will be back to see each other again. We will be back with a good album and a good song when we come back. Until the end of the concert, please enjoy together with us. I love you, everyone,” Mingyu shared.

“Although it’s hot today, thank you so much for making it a lot hotter. Even though it’s hard for us to see each other, thank you so much for waiting for us for a long time. It is really touching to have you in front of us. For the times we haven’t seen each other, we enjoyed and made a lot of memories tonight, so we hope you enjoy at the end of the concert. Thank you!”

THE8

“Did you enjoy? That’s a relief. I was really, really to come to the Philippines after a long time and see you in person. While we are performing, the energy of the Philippine Carats is super passionate. Even before coming out stage, you guys were singing so well, so we were so hyped up to do our performances tonight. We tried our best because we are grateful to you for giving us your precious time to come all the way here. Until the end of the concert, we will try our best to give you the best performances. Thank you all for coming tonight. Mahal ko kayo!”

DK

Dino expressed his appreciation through a special appearance as his alter ego, Pi Cheolin. “Thank you so much for the opportunity to perform again in this venue. It was super, super fun!” Joshua added, “We missed you so much. We missed your energy, your love. We missed your beautiful faces, guys. Thank you so much for coming. I know it’s hot today. Thank you so much for trying your best to cheer us on. We love you guys so much. See you guys soon! Mahal ko kayo!”

The members continued to convey their thanks for the unwavering love and steadfast support of their fans, who filled the Philippine Sports Stadium once again this year with amazing energy and enthusiastic cheers. Woozi reflected on their past experiences in the Philippines and noted, “We really, really have good memories with the Philippines. I am really touched by your big, passionate energy you give me. Thank you so much! Until the end, annyeong!” Seungkwan called the Philippine Carats, “the best” and expressed his appreciation for celebrating his special day with him. “Thank you! Salamat po. Mahal kita! I am genuinely delighted because many Philippine Carats have congratulated me on my birthday. I have received a lot of love and blessings in 2025. We promise to keep you happy this year too. Please take care on your way home. Stay healthy. Thank you!”

“It was really fun that we are able to do our first concert for 2025 with you. We received a lot of energy from you, guys. We will try our best to give you good music. Your energy is no joke! Thank you for tonight. The weather is not the best condition to watch a concert, but thank you for enjoying with us. With your support, we will do our best to do the best performances until the end of the concert. Thank you so much for today! Thank you, guys!”

WONWOO

“After 10 years, I am very, very happy that we are artists, singers who can fill this kind of stadium. Although we are not 13 right now, I really, really hope there will come a time when we can fill this kind of venue again.”

S.COUPS

But without the enduringly iconic and legendary “Aju Nice,” a SEVENTEEN concert would never be complete. The exhilarating three-hour performance capped off with both the boys and their Filipino Carats erupting in cheers and high jumps, concluding the evening with an Aju-Nice celebration like no other.

SEVENTEEN has etched their name in the annals of Philippine K-Pop history with every milestone and every landmark achievement that will remain in our memories forever. They have emerged as the brightest stars — Our Forever Headliner — committed to returning with an even more spectacular concert and fulfilling their every promise. As the group makes their imprint once more in the country’s concert legacy, regardless of the venue, it all comes back to rose quartz and serenity.

Throughout every tour, SEVENTEEN has consistently made the Philippines a stop on their journey, returning to their loyal fans—from their inaugural Asia tour, Shining Diamond, in 2016 as their only two-day stop—to concluding their first world tour, Diamond Edge, in Manila in 2017, followed by Ideal Cut in 2018, making the last stop of Ode To You in 2020, reuniting for Be The Sun in Manila in 2022, making history at the Philippine Arena with Be The Sun in Bulacan that same year, and again carving out another first in Philippine concert history in 2024 with FOLLOW TO BULACAN.

PHILIPPINES IS FIRST: In 2025, the Philippines is SEVENTEEN’s first stop for the Asia leg of the Right Here World Tour, with Philippine Carats bringing high energy to SEVENTEEN who always assure and always come back.

And as always, the promise remains: Until the next “Say the Name, SEVENTEEN!” on the Philippine concert stage with S.Coups, Jeonghan, Joshua, Jun, Hoshi, Wonwoo, Woozi, DK, Mingyu, The8, Seungkwan, Vernon, Dino, and the Philippine Carats.

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SEVENTEEN [RIGHT HERE] WORLD TOUR IN BULACAN was presented by Applewood Korea and Applewood Philippines. Special thanks to Applewood Korea and Applewood Philippines for the invite to the concert.

The article contains events that transpired during the January 18th SEVENTEEN [RIGHT HERE] WORLD TOUR IN BULACAN.

SEVENTEEN is slated to perform a total of eight stadium shows across four cities in Asia with exclusive collaborations set to enliven the concert celebrations.

Bulacan, Philippines – January 19, 2025 – A year after their two sold-out stadium shows in the Philippines, K-pop icon SEVENTEEN returned to the iconic Philippine Sports Stadium for a two-day show-stopping concert on January 18 and 19. This marks the beginning of the highly anticipated Asia leg
of their globe-storming tour ‘SEVENTEEN [RIGHT HERE] WORLD TOUR’ (hereinafter ‘RIGHT HERE’).

Since launching with two sold-out shows in October 2024 in Korea, ‘RIGHT HERE’ swept across five cities in the U.S. and four cities in Japan, drawing an audience of over 700,000 in attendance, both in-person and online.

On Saturday night, SEVENTEEN arrived on the Philippine stage with a dynamic 3-hour set full of massive hits and beloved deep cuts from their celebrated discography. With a powerful opening sequence that comprises high-energy tracks “Fear,” “Fearless,” and “MAESTRO,” SEVENTEEN immediately drew the audience into their transformation from past struggles to a triumph as the “maestro” artists, setting the tone for an emotional journey their performances would entail.

A surprise moment came during the opening ment, when BSS’ new track “CBZ (Prime time)” suddenly kicked in and the trio performed the chorus live for the first time at a concert for their Filipino fans. This was a perfect prelude to the following performances, which transitioned into a burst of colorful energy as SEVENTEEN’s three units—hip-hop, performance, and vocal—each stepped out to perform their respective tracks including “Water,” “Rain,” and “Candy,” clearly displaying what sets SEVENTEEN apart as a team based on the interplay of the different units. The band then trilled the audience with a well-blended combination of humor and creativity, featuring upbeat tracks like “Snap Shoot” and “God of Music” in a jungle-themed musical-esque skit inspired by their popular YouTube series ‘Going Seventeen.’

As the show neared the end, SEVENTEEN gathered at the center of the stage to express their gratitude to their fans, CARATs. Reflecting on the memorable moments of the night, WOOZI said, “We’ve always had such good memories in the Philippines. We’re always touched by your big, passionate energy. Thank you so much.” S.COUPS shared his heartfelt words, “First of all, I’m thankful to be here with everyone. I’m so happy to be an artist who can fill a venue like this as we approach our 10th year. Although we are not 13 right now, I hope we can come back here as 13 again. We’ll try to come see you often wherever we get the chance, so please continue to show us love and support. I love you.”

The loudest cheers exploded from fans when the show reached its climax during SEVENTEEN’s electrifying performances of fan-favorites “Super” and “Adore U.” This built to the encore section of their famously known ‘never-ending’ performance of “VERY NICE.” While all the members ran towards every
corner of the stage to interact closely with their fans, SEUNGKWAN and MINGYU came off the stage, handing the mic to a fan to sing the iconic high note of the song. SEVENTEEN gave their all until the last minute, making sure to leave the audience with unforgettable moments of joy that entice them to return to
their live shows every time.

To amp up on the excitement for the tour stop in the Philippines, SEVENTEEN has teamed up with Spotify to open a pop-up CARAT Station Manila, filled with stunning photo opportunities and interactive activities, from January 17 to 19. Their next stop in Singapore will also feature an exclusive collaboration,
titled THE WONDERLAND with SEVENTEEN, between the group and Marina Bay Sands. The architectural marvel will be lit up in pink and blue hues of Rose Quartz and Serenity—SEVENTEEN’s official color—on concert nights, and SEVENTEEN-inspired culinary creations and bespoke collectibles will be provided across the resort’s F&B establishments from January 20 to 26.

Including their upcoming shows in Singapore (January 25 & 26), ‘RIGHT HERE’ will continue to Jakarta (February 8 & 9) before wrapping up the 4-month world tour in Bangkok (February 15 & 16).

About SEVENTEEN

SEVENTEEN—comprised of S.COUPS, JEONGHAN, JOSHUA, JUN, HOSHI, WONWOO, WOOZI, THE8, MINGYU, DK, SEUNGKWAN, VERNON and DINO—have rocketed to the forefront of the music scene
fueled by a fiercely independent spirit and a nonpareil in-house creative ecosystem. The 13-piece act’s innovative structure hinges on the interplay of three units: hip-hop, vocal, and performance. Since their debut in May 2015, SEVENTEEN’s journey has been a continuous ascent towards solidifying their
position as ‘K-pop icon.’ Last year, they placed two albums at No.2 on the Billboard 200, topped the Billboard Artist 100, and earned the title for the best-selling album worldwide (10th Mini Album FML with more than 6.4 million copies sold) by IFPI. 2024 saw the group soar to new heights in global presence, as they made history as the first K-pop act to perform at Glastonbury and headline Lollapalooza Berlin, while also becoming UNESCO’s first-ever Goodwill Ambassador for Youth. Further recognized with prestigious
accolades such as ‘Best Group’ at the 2024 MTV VMAs and ‘Top K-pop Touring Artist’ at the 2024 BBMAs, SEVENTEEN scored their 10th No.1 album on the Billboard World Albums chart with their recent 12th Mini Album SPILL THE FEELS.

The dynamic sounds of Last Dinosaurs resonated as they took the stage at the SM Skydome on December 8, bringing to life through an electrifying performance.

Last Dinosaurs, composed of Sean Caskey, Lachlan Caskey, and Michael Sloane, delivered a setlist that showcased their evolution as a band, mixing tracks from their earlier with newer singles from their recent releases. The band crafted a dynamic auditory experience catering to both long-time fans and new listeners, with Filipino band Oh, Flamingo! joining them for a concert worth every second.

From the moment the band kicked off the evening, the atmosphere transformed. The infectious energy of their music had the audience singing along, intertwining with dreamy synths, creating an unmistakable soundscape, and transporting listeners to a nostalgic realm. It was a reminder of why Last Dinosaurs have garnered a loyal following; their ability to evoke emotion through music is unmatched.

Solidifying the concert experience for fans as an unforgettable show, Last Dinosaurs performed “Sense”, “Zoom”, “Eleven”, “Stream”, “Andy”, Keys to Your Civic”, among others. The infectious sounds resonated throughout the venue, making everyone felt connected through their shared love for music.

As the night wore on, Last Dinosaurs did not shy away from showing their appreciation for their Filipino fans. They expressed their gratitude, acknowledging the warmth and enthusiasm they’ve always received from the Philippines. When the final chords faded away and as the lights dimmed, it was clear that the magic of that night would linger on long after the sounds had faded.

It was evident that the experience was more than just a concert; it was a cherished memory, one that would last long after the music stopped. For fans of Last Dinosaurs, December 8 was a night to remember, a dazzling display of what live music should be.

LAST DINOSAURS IN MANILA was presented by PULP Live World. Special thanks to PULP Live World for the invitation to the concert.

In the vibrant atmosphere of the Philippines, where the spirit of camaraderie and joy reigns supreme, ENGENEs, fans of ENHYPEN, witnessed a dream come true during the recent DES7INED ENHYPEN | DUNKIN’ Fun Meet at the Araneta Coliseum.

The sold-out event, presented by Dunkin’ Philippines, brought together thousands of dedicated fans for a day filled with laughter, music, and celebration, showcasing the deep connection of ENHYPEN with their fans in the country and making it an experience that the members and ENGENEs will never forget.

“We are so glad and honored to make this fun meet with Dunkin’. We are also so, so excited to meet our ENGENEs in the Philippines again. We prepared some new performances we’ve never done before in the Philippines. I believe ENGENEs will love it.”

Jay, during the press conference, on what to look forward to tonight at the DES7INED ENHYPEN | DUNKIN’ Fun Meet

Fans excitedly shared their excitement on social media in the weeks before the sold-out event, demonstrating the tangible anticipation that preceded the fun meet. A mixture of colorful banners, light sticks, and the undeniable enthusiasm of ENGENEs filled the venue as the day finally came. Cheers and chants reverberated throughout The Big Dome, punctuating the electric energy led by the evening’s host, Ai Dela Cruz, which created an atmosphere that was both surreal and exhilarating.

The event began with a colorful stage setup that was exquisitely adorned to capture the spirit of ENHYPEN and Dunkin’ Philippines’ collaboration. As the lights dimmed, the crowd erupted into cheers, and the members of ENHYPEN—Heeseung, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, Jungwon, and Ni-ki—graced the stage. With their first live performance of their latest hit, “No Doubt,” on the Philippine concert stage, the charismatic and enthusiastic idol group welcomed their Filipino fans to the fun meet. They then greeted their fans with greetings in both Korean and Filipino.

For the first time on the Philippine concert stage, ENHYPEN performs “No Doubt” 🧡#DES7INED_ENHYPEN_with_DUNKINPH@dunkinph pic.twitter.com/ABAjzIAFNG

— Philippine Concerts (@philconcerts) December 6, 2024

Games that drew out their playful sides and special performances that had fans applauding and singing along were among the segments of the event. In addition to allowing the members to interact with the audience, the segments produced warm and playful moments that highlighted ENHYPEN’s charm and charisma. As they participated in tasks requiring fast thinking, there was a lot of laughter. They demonstrated the true spirit of ENHYPEN—not only as performers but as friends who sincerely care about one another—by supporting one another.

As the show came to an end the members thanked the fans for their constant support. Everyone in attendance found resonance in their sincere message about the strength of their connection. The fans and Dunkin’ Philippines surprised the members with special videos welcoming them back to the country and congratulating them, demonstrating the mutual and profound affection between ENHYPEN and their ENGENEs.

Heeseung, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, Jungwon, and Ni-ki delighted the audience with their performances of “Bills” and “Brought the Heat Back”.

As the lights turned back on and the night came to an end, fans left with happy hearts and fond memories. More than just an event, the DES7INED ENHYPEN | DUNKIN’ Fun Meet in the Philippines, organized by Dunkin’ Philippines, was a celebration of friendship, music, and the unbreakable bond between the members and their fans.

“I cannot imagine achieving, coming this far without our ENGENEs and our hard-working members.” –

Jungwon, during the press conference, on celebrating their fourth anniversary as a group

In a world where digital interactions are becoming more and more prevalent, fans are reminded of the value of connection and shared experiences by events such as this one. Dunkin’ Philippines and ENHYPEN created treasured memories that fans will remember for years to come. As Heeseung, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, Jungwon, and Ni-ki continue to conquer the K-Pop landscape, one thing is certain: their Philippine ENGENEs will always hold a special place in their hearts, with fond memories of a day filled with joy, laughter, and warmth.

“We want to be remembered as ambassadors who give happiness to the audience and customers. I hope our ENGENEs enjoy tonight’s fun meet as well.”

Ni-ki, during the press conference, on how they want to be remembered as Dunkin’ Philippines’ ambassadors

ENHYPEN performed three full songs, “No Doubt,” “Bills,” and “Brought The Heat Back,” and there were interactive games and fan-made video segments that both ENHYPEN and their fans enjoyed. The fun meet lasted for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with fans expressing that this was one of the best ENHYPEN experiences they’ve had, appreciating the planning and execution of the event.

DES7INED ENHYPEN | DUNKIN’ Fun Meet was presented by Dunkin’ Philippines and CNCA Media.

Special thanks to Dunkin’ Philippines and CNCA Media

The shoegaze musician WISP, who captured Filipino fans’ hearts and rocked the music landscape with ethereal soundscapes and immersive songs, took over Manila last Thursday.

WISP LIVE IN MANILA, which took place at the SM Skydome, drew a wide range of ardent fans who were excited to enjoy a night full of songs and breathtaking performances. For those who attended the concert, it was more than simply another event; it was a night to remember, filled with engaging music, surreal imagery, and a strong bond between the performer and her audience.

Excitement permeated the air as the sun set. As the venue doors opened and attendees entered the space intended for immersive experiences, the excitement reached its zenith as supporters gathered there dressed in WISP-inspired attire.

A thunderous round of applause echoed through the room as WISP took the stage. Opening the show with “Pandora,” the first song from her debut extended play of the same name, the singer wasted no time in connecting with her audience and building a connection.

The crowd was enthralled as WISP began performing her single, “Tangled Dreams.” Her dreamy stage presence, poignant lyrics, and catchy rhythms captivated everyone. A euphoric surge of oneness was created as fans sang along at the top of their lungs to each song that appeared to speak to them personally.

WISP’s performance of “I Remember How Your Hands Felt on Mine” was one of the concert’s highlights. The song captured the essence of live music and sent audiences into a state of pure bliss. WISP took time during the evening to engage with the audience and thank them for their support.

WISP’s closing song, “Your Face,” left audiences feeling thrilled and wanting more. A mixture of happiness and nostalgia pervaded the air as concertgoers realized that the concert was drawing to a close. Throughout the evening, the singer sang eleven different songs, including “Enough for You,” “Luna,” “See You Soon,” “Once Then We’ll Be Free,” and “Mimi.” The singer gave fans another memory to cherish until she returned to the Philippine concert stage by performing “Your Face” again after an encore was requested.

WISP LIVE IN MANILA was presented by PULP Live World. Special thanks to PULP Live World for the invitation to the event.

Chen, soloist, and member of K-pop group EXO, concluded his Beyond the Door Fan-Con tour with an unforgettable night in Manila.

Held on November 23 at the New Frontier Theater, the sold-out event marked the final stop of his Asia tour, which began in Seoul and visited Taipei, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur.

No Stress

The evening was an intimate showcase of Chen’s vocal talent and warm personality. His understated entry set the tone: no grand announcements or fanfare—just a darkened stage and his heartfelt rendition of “Empty.” The stage, adorned with plants, wooden accents, and mellow lighting, created a cozy ambiance. He welcomed fans into this serene space, saying “You don’t have to be stressed here.”

This relaxed sentiment carried through the 14-song setlist. A video interlude offered fans a glimpse into his creative process, where he shared, “I want to create music that isn’t overwhelming but instead approaches you in a simple and pure way.” Known for his ability to channel raw emotion lyrically and vocally, Chen’s voice was both tender and powerful.

Chaos and Costumes: The “Chenllenge”

A highlight of the event was the delightfully chaotic “Chenllenge,” where he attempted to guess missing lyrics from songs by EXO and EXO members without knowing the titles. Despite his best efforts, he got none correct, leading to a series of hilarious costume changes including butterfly wings, a Cardcaptor Sakura outfit, a French fry suit, and finally, a flying squirrel onesie. In his last costume, he joked, “Audience on the second floor, just wait—I’ll fly to you.” He skipped guessing the lines to Baekhyun’s “Pineapple Slice” altogether and delivered an apology video instead.

His playful banter with the audience added a unique Filipino charm. As fans cheekily counted down his thinking time, he complained, “Bakit ganyan kayo sakin?” (“Why are you treating me like this?”), revealing that no other stop on the tour had done so. Recognized as part of EXO’s mischievous “beagle line,” Chen fully embraced the chaos, pleading, whining, and even nagging the translator to stop laughing in his ear—all in good fun.

He shared that before the show, the director approached him wishing they’d meet again with a smile now that the tour has ended. Chen quipped that, after all the costumes he had to wear, he wasn’t sure he’d be able to.

An Exchange of Light

Beyond the laughs, the evening displayed a deep bond between Chen and his fans. The photo area at the Fanzone featured a bench inspired by one Chen personally designed and crafted for the Seoul stop.
Before the photo session, fans surprised Chen with a video showcasing how his music has become part of their daily lives. Touched, he responded, “I’m not someone who shines brightly, but someone who reflects your light to shine even brighter.”

Fans also transformed the theater into a glowing meadow using blinking dandelion lights during “Starlight”. Moved by the fan projects, Chen said, “I want to make these things (for you), but you made it for me. I see how you care for me and love me.” He acknowledges, “Even though it’s cliché, the voices of my fans are my greatest strength.”

An Open Door

Chen wrapped up with a double encore of iconic K-drama OSTs, “Best Luck” from It’s Okay, That’s Love and “Everytime” from Descendants of the Sun.

With no dancers, elaborate effects, or backup singers, Chen carried the entire show by himself. While his ballads were wistful, his humor and spontaneity made the evening equally lighthearted and sincere. Whether dressed as a magical anime girl or pouring his heart into a song, Chen reminded fans why they’ve stayed by his side—not just for his voice, but for the person behind it.

As the curtain fell, the night felt less like a farewell and more like a promise of brighter doors yet to open.

Words: MAJ

OPM indie-pop icons Orange & Lemons (ONL) held their milestone-defining Now & Then: 25th Anniversary Concert at the Metrotent Convention Center on October 18.

Clem Castro (vocals and guitars), JM Del Mundo (bass guitar), Ace Del Mundo (drums), and Jared Nerona (keyboards) treated fans to an extensive three-hour set filled with their finely curated hits – from their well-loved classics to their less known B-sides. The concert was not only a nostalgic trip to the past but also a treasure trove of discoveries.

Split into four distinctive parts, ONL paid homage to the four albums they had released over the years, showcasing not only their growth as musicians but also their highs and lows as a band. At the beginning of each era, a short introduction video featuring the four band members was played wherein each of them chimed in to share their fond memories from that era.

“Sa tagal ko nang tumutugtog, ngayon lang ako kinabahan nang ganito,” Clem Castro said to the crowd at the beginning. The band members laughed in the background as well. After all, this was their 25th anniversary concert and this was the first time they would be playing a long, career-spanning concert.

As expected of the fanbase, the crowd was made up mostly of people in their 30s and above. They were seated for the entirety of the show, devoid of the loud, boisterous party energy. People were more relaxed during performances, opting to quietly take in the music as it was played instead of raising their arms in the air to record videos. Still, these people mostly knew the band from their humble beginnings and they remained on the edge of their seats throughout the concert.

Part I: A Beginning of Something Wonderful

The first song that played was the rightful welcome for the audience. After all, it was the first song in their first-ever album Love in the Land of Rubber Shoes & Dirty Ice Cream. This was followed by the ONL classic “Just Like a Splendid Love Song” which was their breakthrough single that was first played on the now-defunct radio station NU107 in 2003. The sweet Brit-pop-infused song captured the ears of many curious music enthusiasts and became their entry point to being one of the stand-out indie acts then. They also played “Kailangan Kita”, “My Butterfly” and “Lovers Go, Lovers Come”.

Part II: Fast forward to 2022!

In a slightly off-kilter move, the 2nd part of the concert focused on their 4th and latest album La Bulaqueña. Released in 2022, it was touted as the only all-Tagalog ONL album as well as their most inventive one yet. It’s an eclectic yet smooth amalgamation of old Filipino-Spanish inspirations like Kundiman with modern ONL indie-pop sensibilities. As the first album released during the band’s reformation, it was the step that grounded their music and reintroduced them to the OPM scene.

ONL was joined by a violinist (Clem Castro’s nephew) on stage which added an enchanting vibe to the set. Some songs included were “Pag-Ibig sa Tabing Dagat” (featuring snippets of Empoy and Alessandra de Rossi in the background), “Ikaw na Walang Hanggan” and “Hele Para Kay Stella” and “La Bulaqueña”.

Part III: The Heydays – Umuwi ka na, baby

When ONL was at the peak of their career, the album Strike Whilst the Iron Is Hot became a household favorite across the country. As Clem shared, this was the time when they were holding gigs daily, with very short breaks in between. This was also the part that felt most familiar to the crowd.

When the snippets of close-up reeds were shown in the background, everyone knew what song would be next: “Heaven Knows (This Angel Has Flown)”. Shortly after, another crowd-favorite took over: “Hanggang Kailan”. The entire crowd sang along loudly to both songs, some even went as far as to wave their hands in the air. Who knew “Umuwi ka na, baby” could become such an iconic cry?

At one point, Clem had to pause before his spiel because he was panting so hard. “Si Macoy kasi, umalis. Ang hirap kaya kumanta at maggitara nang sabay,” he joked. During the concert, he constantly acknowledged Macoy’s contributions to Orange & Lemons: “Di magiging posible ang ONL kung wala si Macoy”. Clem said that they were able to meet him again 3 months before the concert during a private event, but a reunion with him as the vocalist was “off the table”.

Other songs from the album included “Cycle of Love”, “Pabango Ng ‘Yong Mata” and “Lihim”.

Part IV: The Final Stop – Moonlane Gardens

Trivia: “Moonlane Gardens” is an anagram for “Orange and Lemons” and the word is often used by the band. It’s the handler of their official Instagram and X accounts. Ironically, their 3rd album, which was the reason ONL broke up, also had the same name. In 2007, the unabashedly Brit-pop-influenced album was ONL’s way of raising the middle finger to the record executives who wanted them to change their musicality to pander to the general public. Shortly after its release, Orange & Lemons called it quits. They were not even able to promote the album properly.

Hearing the band play the songs live for the first time was like watching a brand new movie, with plot twists unfolding revelations. “Moonlane Gardens” felt like an unexplored safe place, one that exudes comfort and peace. Songs like “Ang Katulad Mong Walang Katulad”, “It’s About Time” and “Fade” were quite frankly hidden ONL treasures.

As blasts of confetti burst into the air, “A New Day” played. While the crowd shouted for an encore, the band respectfully declined because they said they had played 33 songs. Jokingly, Jared even said, “baka di na kayanin ng tuhod ni Clem”. They thanked the crowd for being there: “Kung wala kayo, wala rin kami.”

Now & Then: Orange & Lemons 25th Anniversary Concert was a one-of-a-kind experience – it was both a reminiscence and a revelation. As someone who has known their music since “Just Like a Splendid Love Song” was looped on NU107, the concert felt like a celebration of all the years that had gone, but at the same time, it also felt like a re-introduction to ONL’s musicality. Ahh, OPM is in good hands, after all. Cheers to 25 years and more music!

Special thanks to Gabi Na Naman Productions

by Sandra Mae Laureano

With silver lights and joyful applause, the Philippines welcomed our kababayan Park Chanyeol back to its shores!

Chanyeol of EXO returned home to perform for his Filipino EXO-L at the Araneta Coliseum in the Philippines on October 19 in the 2024 CHANYEOL LIVE TOUR: 都市風景 (City-scape) IN MANILA. As always, EXO-L packed the venue, illuminating it for EXO with cheers of pride and Eribong shining brightly.

From his first to the final bow, Chanyeol captivated the audience with a live band, showcasing his incredible guitar prowess, captivating ments and stories, and strong performances that reminded us why he will always be our Cherry Prince. With their fervent applause for their four-leaf clover, their brightest star, EXO-L elevated the experience as the concert flowed with so much excitement.

With “Back Again” and “Good Enough”, and their exquisitely diverse vibes, the singer-actor opened the event, showcasing multiple facets of himself as a performer. His stage presence was stunning as Chanyeol’s magnetism makes him a standout performer whether he’s performing with EXO or individually. He is not afraid to share and display his talents with the public. His generosity and willingness to share his talents are demonstrated by the four shows he has performed in the Philippines alone since 2023. And, each time, he introduced something fresh and displayed a better Park Chanyeol.

The opening was concluded with thunderous applause from EXO-L. Chanyeol formally welcomed everyone to the 2024 CHANYEOL LIVE TOUR: 都市風景 (City-scape) IN MANILA with the words, “What’s up, Manila!” He went on to say, “Long time no see! I’m Chanyeol. Good to see you again.” Indeed, it is always pleasant to see him return to the local performance scene with his fans giving him the most enthusiastic applause each time. Chanyeol said the full house that greeted him was “unbelievable,” but in all honesty, it was to be expected because there is no question that EXO and EXO-L can fill any venue for every member.

“Magandang gabi! It’s nice to meet you all. Kumusta? Na-miss ko kayo. Salamat po.”

Chanyeol

After his powerful City-Scape opening, he sang a mashup of his famous OST with Punch from the Korean drama Goblin, “Stay With Me,” his OST for She’s My Type, “minimal warm,” and his single, “Yours,” featuring Raiden, Lee Hi, and Changmo. He went on to perform his SM Station Season 4 single, “Tomorrow”. The venue reverberated with lovely harmony as the fans sang along. Chanyeol remarked, “You guys are good singers,” During the singer-actor’s guitar solo, the audience sang “Sweet Child of Mine” in a truly Filipino moment. Chanyeol played “Hotel California” by Eagles and “Basket Case” by Green Day in addition to “Sweet Child of Mine.” The audience was equally thrilled by his band’s introductions, as we heard “Lupang Hinirang” played on the keyboard.

Chanyeol brought EXO-SC back to the Philippine concert stage with performances of “Telephone” and “Just Us 2” from the respective albums, 1 Billion Views and What A Life. With an adorable start, the singer-actor got everyone smiling and saying “Hasta La Vista”. This perfect weekend with him made us “Ease Up” so that it felt like it could last forever. He then rounded out the set with EXO-SC’s “Nothin’”. Collaborating with EXO-L during the dance, our four-leaf clover delivered “Clover” to the concert stage.

His exchanges and banter with fans, including teaching them the four-leaf clover moves, fervently showcasing his love for PENSHOPPE, and sharing stories about the pictures he shot during his “city-scape” to Manila, were too cute for words.

Our kababayan, Pogi Chanyeol, undoubtedly made us swoon with his performance of “Raining in Manila” by Lola Amour. His rendition of “Raining In Manila” was so amazing that we couldn’t stop listening to it. We are still reeling from the memorable cover performance when Chanyeol did an EXO medley and had us cheering with nostalgia and tears in our eyes.

The Big Dome saw performances of “Lotto,” “Tempo,” “Monster,” “Obsession,” and “Growl”. Then, on the Philippine stage, he made the debut of EXO’s pre-release single, “Hear Me Out,” from their seventh studio album, Exist.

After taking a little respite and returning with a guitar and a leather jacket, Chanyeol treated EXO-L to “Black Out” before delivering “SSFW”. The Cherry Prince, who is always the giving performer, performed an encore performance of “Raining In Manila”.

“I wanna say thank you so much to all of you for coming tonight. Because of you, every process from the preparation until this moment has been so much fun. Next time I come to the Philippines, I will prepare a new song,” he said and jokingly added, “No more Hawak Kamay.”

“Magkita tayo ulit! Mahal kita.”

Chanyeol

Chanyeol, EXO-L’s Forever Peter Pan, provided hope with his song “I’m On Your Side Too” with a promise to always be on our sides. He returned for the encore, serenading the Philippines with EXO’s “Just As Usual”. “Thank you for an encore. Maganda,” he remarked with a bow to the audience. He reassured his fans that he would look after himself and reminded them to do the same.

“If you guys call me back, I’ll fly anytime to be here. Any time… You guys are my only four-leaf clover. Today, I was really, really happy.”

Chanyeol

Chanyeol bid his beloved EXO-L a “see you again” with “We are One, EXO Saranghaja” and an encore performance of “Hasta La Vista”.

Silver lights will welcome CHANYEOL in his first solo concert in the Philippines tonight at The Big Dome 🩶#CHANYEOLinMANILA2024 @pulpliveworld pic.twitter.com/ZR9Y6wKL8K

— Philippine Concerts (@philconcerts) October 19, 2024

2024 CHANYEOL LIVE TOUR: 都市風景 (City-scape) IN MANILA was presented by PULP Live World. Special thanks to PULP Live World for the invitation to the event.

On October 12, 2024, Manila became the heart of ZEROBASEONE’s TIMELESS tour.

Fans filled every corner of the SM Mall of Asia Arena, but the excitement in the air was different. Manila was the most recent stop on the 2024 ZEROBASEONE THE FIRST TOUR [TIMELESS WORLD], and what unfolded was nothing short of spectacular. This night wasn’t just about music. It was about the connection between ZB1 and PH ZEROSE, one that felt as if time paused, just for them.

The show opened with a captivating VCR that drew everyone into ZEROBASEONE’s world. Moments later, the group exploded onto the stage with Solar POWER, Road Movie, Take My Hand, New Kidz on the Block, and KILL THE ROMEO. Right from the start, it was clear that this wasn’t going to be just another night. ZB1’s energy was off the charts, and the crowd matched them at every beat.

The first talk of the night gave a glimpse into the members’ excitement. Ricky, making up for missing the Asia Artist Awards last year, shared how thrilled he was to finally see PH ZEROSE. Yujin couldn’t help but talk about his excitement for local dishes like adobo, while Taerae had Jollibee’s burger on his mind. A playful teaser from Jiwoong and Taerae sent the crowd into a frenzy before they launched into CRUSH.

One of the evening’s highlights was an interactive VCR where Zhanghao was shown to have “shrunk” in size and the boys of ZEROBASEONE are finding ways to make him return to his original size. Fans were drawn into the fun as they helped bring Hao back to normal size, cheering on the screen. It was a lighthearted break before the next wave of performances hit.

As the boys shifted to their bubblegum pop set, performing In Bloom, Insomnia, and Good Night in casual outfits, the atmosphere softened but never lost its magic. The intimacy between ZEROBASEONE and their ZEROSE was palpable, especially when the members split into sub-units. Zhang Hao, Jiwoong, Matthew, Ricky, and Gunwook showcased both their charm and charisma with Always and Over Me, while Hanbin, Taerae, Gyuvin, and Yujin lifted the mood with the bright and upbeat Switch. As the group came together for En Garde, the stage felt like an arena of memories in the making.

The concert’s lighter moments came during their second talk, where the youngest, Yujin, and Gunwook’s aegyo antics delighted the crowd. Even the eldest, Jiwoong, wasn’t spared from the playful pressure to showcase his cute side. Fans, of course, reveled in every second of it.

As the night progressed, the boys threw it back to their Boys Planet roots with Say My Name and Here I Am, before diving into darker, more intense performances like Dear ECLIPSE and Hot Summer. The energy only heightened as the group rolled through SWEAT, Kidz Zone, Feel the POP, and a charged encore of GOOD SO BAD—thanks to the endless chants from PH ZEROSE for “one more time!”, looping the song as if it has no end.

But what truly made this night unforgettable was the moment PH ZEROSE took the spotlight. With the arena glowing in white and blue, fans waved their banners and sang along to Our Season. It was a visual and emotional display of the deep connection between the group and their fans, a moment that felt as timeless as the tour’s name suggests.

As the night drew to a close, the boys returned to the stage for their final songs, decked out in their TIMELESS WORLD merch. With tracks like YURA YURA, And I, and Sunday RIDE, the concert hit its final notes, but the emotions lingered, especially during their last song, HELLO, where Gyuvin was seen with teary eyes, saying that he will never forget the cheers they all received during the concert, making Manila stop a core memory for him.