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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.

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.

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.

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