Vocaloid Virtual Idol Hatsune Miku to Bring 'Miku Expo 2025' to Manila

Last July 12, the Araneta Coliseum was packed as fans gathered to welcome back the Ultimate Oppa Park Seo Jun (PSJ) for his much-anticipated Fan Fest in collaboration with Century Tuna. 

Organized by Wilbros Live, this event was nothing short of spectacular, which is due to PSJ’s jaw-dropping visuals and irresistible charm that definitely brought some sunshine to the Philippine skies! But the crème de la crème of the show were the fan-dedicated segments and program that Century Tuna prepared for the Hallyu superstar and his beloved fans.

From laugh-out-loud games to the kilig-worthy moments, here’s why PSJ’s Ultimate Fan Fest will stay with us long after the final confetti falls to the ground. 

Kilig Highlights That Got Fans Talking

From the numerous social media posts and reels, there’s no doubt that this was no ordinary fan meet. Park Seo Jun served main character moments all night long through Q&A discourses and fun games where he got to interact with some lucky fans on stage. 

The newest Superbod didn’t hold back on the kilig when he paired up with one lucky fan to fulfill her K-Drama leading lady fantasy in a special segment called “Two Minutes with PSJ.” This was probably our favorite part of the show as we watched the lucky fan go through every K-Drama romantic moment from being given flowers by PSJ, watching a movie with him side by side, and being kept warm with a blanket over her shoulders, which, yes, the actor put on himself! That sweet hug they shared at the end was the perfect conclusion for their two-minute K-Drama scene. Fans will never be over it — truly a #SanaAll moment!

The love kept pouring throughout the evening, and overflowed even to the outside of the main dome as seen from the heartfelt messages fans wrote on the Hallyu Wave Wall in the lobby. In true fan meet fashion, Park Seo Jun took the time to read and watch the touching tributes sent his way on stage, soliciting cheers from everyone. 

#ProteinFit Tips You Can’t Help But Repeat

The fun continues with more games and even a Q&A segment with the actor, where he shared his fitness routines and some other personal tidbits. Prior to the show, The Beat Manila got to attend the press conference where he shared his favorite way of enjoying Century Tuna.

“Since Century Tuna has a very pure taste, I wouldn’t want to waste that by adding some seasoning or different tastes,” he said. “I would enjoy [Century Tuna] the most by adding it to a salad, so we have a balance of protein and vegetables.”

He also added how he ate a lot of the product during the shoot, which can be seen in the video campaign. He also stated that the best way to enjoy Century Tuna is with seaweed. Safe to say, local supermarkets need to start stocking up on seaweed because how else are we going to eat Century Tuna from now on?

“Looking at the brand itself, it’s very red, so it leaves a big impression,” he shared. “That’s what I remember working with Century Tuna the most. I had so much fun!”

The “Fight for My Way” actor also shared his usual workout routine, which involves half an hour of stretching, 40 minutes of strength training, and running for at least five kilometers. No wonder he’s so fit! He also talked about how maintaining good physical health does wonders for our mental health, so people should strive to keep their bodies nurtured and fit. 

“For us to have a healthy mind, we must first have a healthy body. If you have difficulty running or starting a difficult exercise, you can start by walking and doing simple exercises.”

At the fan meet, PSJ shared that he tries to exercise at least 30 minutes a day despite his busy schedule. Fans and fellow Century Tuna ambassadors like Anne Curtis and the Superbods listened intently to his tips on maintaining a healthy physique, and of course, how Century Tuna plays a role in his everyday nutrition. This makes him the perfect #CenturyTunaOppa because staying healthy doesn’t mean flavor should be sacrificed for nutrition. Rather, it’s about ensuring you get the best of both worlds!

He was also game to put his imaginary chef hat on, joining a recipe demo that featured Century Tuna’s Flakes in Oil, ideal for people who are always on the go, as it's an easy and simple protein fix. With talent, looks, and good kitchen skills? What can he NOT do?

Filipino fans may have had their share of Hallyu fan meets, but this one hits different. We can’t wait to see more of his collaboration with the brand and catch more glimpses of his health-loving side that will hopefully inspire fans — and the nation — to pursue healthier lifestyles. 

For more updates on all things Park Seo Jun, follow Century Tuna on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), and Instagram.

From indie darling Faye Webster’s long-awaited Manila debut to a French wine journey and genre-spanning gigs across the metro, this week is packed with music, culture, and good vibes. Whether you're raising a glass or swaying to dream pop, there’s plenty to enjoy. Check out our curated lineup of nightlife events happening around the city!

Faye Webster Live in Manila

Faye Webster is set to perform at The Filinvest Tent on July 21! This marks the singer-songwriter’s debut performance in the country. Presented by Karpos Live, this intimate, standing-room-only concert offers fans a chance to experience Webster's unique blend of indie folk, R&B, and country influences. Audiences will also be treated to tracks off her latest album, "Underdressed at the Symphony," inspired by her spontaneous visits to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. 

Faye Webster Live in Manila The Filinvest Tent Mon, July 21
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM Witness Faye Webster's live performance at her Manila live show at The Filinvest Tent, July 21, 2025, 8PM.

babychair Live in Manila

Malaysian dream pop trio babychair is set to serenade Filipino fans on July 18 at Teatrino Promenade. Composed of Sean (vocals), Aaron (multi-instrumentalist), and Young (keyboard/synths), the band first came together during the pandemic, channeling influences from dream pop, indie pop, and city pop to create music that transports listeners. The band’s live set is expected to bring wistful moods to life. Tickets are priced at P3,500 for VIP and P2,000 for General Admission.

babychair Live in Manila Teatrino Promenade Fri, July 18
8:00 PM onwards Dream pop trio babychair brings their nostalgic, retro sound to Manila for a one-night-only show on July 18 at Teatrino Promenade, supported by Ango Kamiya, tungsten01, and nsevert42.

Fat Cat Productions’ 2nd Anniversary Celebration

Fat Cat Productions is turning two, and you’re invited to a jam-packed indie night on July 19 at Unknown13 Pub. This anniversary bash brings together some of the community’s most talented artists: Jaycee Griba, Carmela Lao, Jewelle, and #Poyo, topped off with a headlining set from Arthur Miguel. Grab your tickets now and join the crowd as Fat Cat celebrates music, milestones, and the growing indie scene in the metro.

Fat Cat Productions’ 2nd Anniversary Celebration Unknown 13 Pub Sat, July 19
7:00 PM - Join Fat Cat Productions’ 2nd Anniversary Celebration on July 19 at Unknown13 Pub, headlined by Arthur Miguel and featuring Jaycee Griba, Carmela Lao, and more.

OTELIK PRESENTS: WHAT HAF-- OMG MID YEAR NAAA...

It’s officially midyear madness and Autotelik's throwing a live music bash you won’t want to miss. "WHAT HAF—OMG MID YEAR NAAA..." is happening on July 18 at 123 Block. Autotelic, a fan favorite since their early breakout tracks, “Laro,” “Unstable,” and “Gising,” will take the stage. Also in the lineup are Kjwan, Tanya Markova, shirebound, and Spacedog Spacecat. Tickets are P500 for pre-registered attendees and P600 for walk-ins.

OTELIK PRESENTS: WHAT HAF-- OMG MID YEAR NAAA... 123 block Fri, July 18
8:00 PM onwards Celebrate midyear madness with Autotelic and friends at OTELIK PRESENTS: WHAT HAF—OMG MID YEAR NAAA... on July 18 at 123 Block.

Tour de France Du Vin 2025

Sheraton Manila Bay in partnership with Le Cellier Wine Selection presents "Tour de France du Vin 2025," a sophisticated exploration of French viticulture and cuisine. Savor 17 wines from five iconic regions of France, thoughtfully paired with regional dishes that embody the essence of each locale. From the citrusy brightness of wines from the Loire Valley to the rich, full-bodied reds of Bordeaux, each tasting highlights the diverse terroirs that define France’s winemaking heritage.

Tour de France Du Vin 2025 Sheraton Manila Bay Thu, July 17
7:00 PM onwards Embark on a flavorful journey through France at Tour de France du Vin 2025 on July 17 at Sheraton Manila Bay, with 17 curated wines paired with French dishes.

Old Forest's 2nd Anniversary

Old Forest marks two years of supporting Filipino music and communities with a two-day anniversary show on July 18-19 at Mow’s. Day One brings the energy with Carousel Casualties, Oh, Flamingo!, Cinéma Lumière, Jetcoaster, LKFRNT, Wickermoss, and We Are Imaginary from Bicol. Day Two turns up the volume with Thirds, Trailing Noises, Breē, Disco Grenade (Manila/Baguio), Sundowner LU (La Union), Forest Rituals (Laguna), and shed (Batangas). Secure your passes now!

Old Forest's 2nd Anniversary Mow's Fri, July 18 7:00 PM onwards Old Forest’s 2nd Anniversary is happening at Mow’s on July 18-19, featuring genre-spanning performances from rising and established acts across the Philippines.

PopQuiz: A Back to School Trivia Night

School’s in session at "PopQuiz: A Back to School Trivia Night," popping on July 17 at Int./Ext. Bar, Cubao Expo. As the second installment of PopQuiz’s 9th-anniversary celebration, this edition throws it back to your school days, reimagined with a pop culture twist. Test your smarts in fun categories like “Adulting 101,” “Music Theory,” “Poetry Analysis 103, and “Applied Guesstimations.” Gather your smartest friends or funniest classmates—teams must have 2 to 6 players. Tickets are P200 per player.

PopQuiz: A Back to School Trivia Night INT.Bar / EXT.Cafe Thu, July 17
8:00 PM onwards Join a clever classroom comeback at PopQuiz: A Back to School Trivia Night on July 17 at Int./Ext Bar, with quirky school-themed categories for teams of 2-6.

SPIT TO THE FUTURE

SPIT Manila, the country’s top improvisational troupe, swings by UPFI Film Center, UP Diliman on July 19. This live performance promises 100% unscripted, unfiltered comedy crafted on the spot. Every ticket sold supports a greater mission, as proceeds benefit The Rotary Foundation, the Rotary Club of San Juan West, and Engineers Without Borders Philippines. Tickets start at P1,500. Don't miss it!

SPIT TO THE FUTURE UPFI Film Center Sat, July 19
2:00 PM onwards Catch SPIT live on July 19, 2025, 2 PM at the UPFI Film Center for improv comedy with a cause.

The Crying Club

It's all about heartbreak and harmony at "The Crying Club," slated for July 20 at Mow’s Bar. Catch a compelling lineup of underground artists: TNG (emoviolence from Bulacan), Thirds (math rock-adjacent trio), Sintasan (emotionally unfiltered sound), tilapayaso (slowcore from Baguio), GRE! (emo rap from Fairview), Ghost Stories (intense skramzviolence), and Dana Paulene (melancholic folk)!

The Crying Club Mow's Sun, July 20
5:00 PM onwards Celebrate all shades of emo at The Crying Club on July 20 at Mow’s Bar, with live sets from underground acts spanning emoviolence, sad rap, slowcore, and more.

Stellar Turns 8: Razorback x Maria Cafra

A night of pure rock and OPM legacy awaits at "Stellar Turns 8: Razorback x Maria Cafra," set on July 19 at The 70’s Bistro. Feel the grit of Razorback, the hard rock powerhouse whose explosive anthems "Giyang," "Munting Paraiso," and "Tabi Ng Bulkan" shaped the sound of Filipino rock in the '90s. Joining them is Maria Cafra, the trailblazing rock act from the '70s known for songs like "Kumusta, Mga Kaibigan" and "Tala Sa Umaga."

Stellar Turns 8: Razorback x Maria Cafra The 70s Bistro bar Sat, July 19
8:00 PM onwards Razorback and Maria Cafra join forces for Stellar Turns 8, a rock-filled anniversary bash on July 19 at The 70’s Bistro.

Manila is in full celebration mode with star-studded fan meets, all-out sports battles, and community-driven events lighting up the week. From K-drama fans and Thai BL/GL stans to pet lovers and runners, everyone has a reason to show up and show out. Check out our top picks happening across the metro!

Pet Express Dog & Cat Expo 2025

Calling all furparents! The Pet Express Dog & Cat Expo returns this July 18-20 at SMX Convention Center Manila. This is your chance to enjoy fun shopping and bonding with your fur babies, all in one paw-some venue. There will be an exciting mix of activities, special promos, and unbeatable deals on pet food, toys, grooming items, and accessories. Come with your pets and explore a wonderland made just for them!

Pet Express Dog And Cat Expo 2025 SMX Convention Center Manila Fri, July 18 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Furparents, unite! The Pet Express Dog & Cat Expo returns to SMX Manila from July 18-20 with amazing deals, fun activities, and free admission!

STAR MAGIC ALL STAR GAMES 2025

The Star Magic All-Star Games 2025 is slated for July 20 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. This event promises yet another action-packed basketball and volleyball match featuring the country’s top Star Magic talents. Prepare for a stellar lineup, with fan-favorite names like Donny Pangilinan, Gerald Anderson, Loisa Andalio, Seth Fedelin, BGYO’s Akira, JL, Mikki, BINI’s Mikha, and Angela Ken joining the court.

STAR MAGIC ALL STAR GAMES 2025 Smart Araneta Coliseum Sun, July 20
3:00 PM onwards Catch your favorite Star Magic stars and pro athletes go head-to-head in intense basketball and volleyball matches at the Star Magic All-Star Games 2025.

DAYDREAMIN' BYEON WOOSEOK Fan Meet

Byeon Woo-seok of "Lovely Runner" fame returns to the Philippines for a grand fan meet titled “Daydreamin," happening on July 19 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Presented by Dunkin’ Philippines, this special event celebrates Woo-seok’s ever-growing fanbase. Score a free ticket by purchasing special Dunkin’ bundles, available only at select branches nationwide. A maximum of two bundles may be availed per person, per transaction.

DAYDREAMIN' BYEON WOOSEOK Fan Meet Smart Araneta Coliseum Sat, July 19
7:00 PM onwards Catch South Korean heartthrob Byeon Woo-seok live at the Daydreamin’ Fan Meet on July 19 at Smart Araneta Coliseum, with tickets available through Dunkin’.

The Heart Killers Fan Meeting in Manila

The main cast of "The Heart Killers" is headed to Manila for their first fan meeting with Filipino fans. The event will feature Joong Archen, Dunk Natachai, First Kanaphan, and Khaotung Thanawat, who play characters Fadel, Style, Kant, and Bison in the hit series. The fan meet will include live interactions, special performances, and exclusive fan service. Tickets are still up for grabs!

The Heart Killers Fan Meeting in Manila UP Theater Manila Sat, July 19
3:00 PM onwards Meet First, Khaotung, Joong, and Dunk at THE HEART KILLERS FAN MEETING IN MANILA on July 19, 2025, 3 PM at UP Theater. Tickets on sale Feb. 19, 12 NN!

MANILA MINI MARATHON 2025

Run through historic streets at the "Manila Mini Marathon 2025," set on July 20, at the iconic Fort Santiago, Intramuros. This race offers participants the chance to explore the walled city's cobblestone paths, historic architecture, and heritage sites. All participants will receive a race bib, official singlet, and a finisher’s medal. There are also hydration stations and post-run festivities in store. Register now!

MANILA MINI MARATHON 2025 Fort Santiago Sun, July 20
4:00 AM onwards Race through cobblestone streets and centuries-old landmarks at the Manila Mini Marathon 2025 on July 20 in Fort Santiago, Intramuros, with 3K, 5K, and 10K.

Takbo Para Sa Kalikasan – Water Run 2025

Make waves for a greener planet at "Water Run 2025," the second installment in the Takbo Para Sa Kalikasan element series, scheduled on July 20 at SM Mall of Asia. Choose from 5K, 10K, and 18K categories. Race kits include an event singlet, race bib, finisher shirt, and a basswood eco-friendly medal. Proceeds from the event will benefit Pag-asa Pawikan Protection and Conservation Center in Bagac, Bataan, Pawicare in Zambales, as well as various disaster relief and recovery programs. 

Takbo Para Sa Kalikasan – Water Run 2025 SM Mall of Asia Sun, July 20
4:00 AM onwards Support marine conservation and sustainability at Water Run 2025, the second installment of Takbo Para Sa Kalikasan, happening July 20 at SM Mall of Asia.

Stellar KATHANGDAYOG

Witness a breathtaking fusion of strength, culture, and movement at Polecats Manila’s milestone 15th annual student showcase, "Stellar Kathangdayog," slated for July 20 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater. Drawing from the Filipino words katha (creation) and indayog (rhythm), this event embodies how dance transcends language and unifies the human experience. Tickets are available now at Ticket2Me.

Stellar KATHANGDAYOG Newport Performing Arts Theater Sun, July 20
7:00 PM onwards Polecats Manila’s 15th annual student showcase, Stellar Kathangdayog, is happening on July 20 at Newport Performing Arts Theater.

Manila Standard: Clash of Kawali x Luxent Hotel

Clash of Kawali is back and hotter than ever! The culinary competition returns on July 18 in partnership with Luxent Hotel. The event will be held live on-site and streamed via Manila Standard’s official Facebook page. Fresh off its Mother’s Day edition, Clash of Kawali continues its mission to spotlight amazing local culinary talent. This showdown gathers passionate cooks ready to go head-to-head for the coveted golden kawali. 

Manila Standard: Clash of Kawali x Luxent Hotel Luxent Hotel Fri, July 18
12:00 PM onwards Watch homegrown culinary talents battle it out live at Luxent Hotel Quezon City on July 18 in Clash of Kawali, streamed via Manila Standard’s official Facebook.

Namtan Film 1st Fan Meeting in Manila

Namtan Tipnaree and Film Rachanun, the beloved Thai GL duo from the hit series "Pluto," are heading to the Philippines for their first fan meeting with Filipino Lunars. All ticket holders will receive a poster and souvenir card. Premium ticket tiers include hi-touch access, photo ops, signed posters, and sound check access. Tickets are on sale via wishusluck.helixpay.ph. Grab yours today!

Namtan Film 1st Fan Meeting in Manila UP Theater, UP Diliman Fri, July 18
6:00 PM onwards Thai GL stars Namtan Tipnaree and Film Rachanun bring their first-ever fan meeting to Manila on July 18 at UP Theater, promising sweet moments for fans.

THE MAGIC OF MIYAZAKI

RMTLI invites you to “The Magic of Miyazaki” on July 16 at De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, with live streaming on YouTube and Facebook. This event presents an exclusive video featuring Hayao Miyazaki, celebrated Japanese animator and 2024 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, along with Studio Ghibli Co-founder Toshio Suzuki. Following the screening, a live panel discussion will delve into the role of animation in shaping human values. 

THE MAGIC OF MIYAZAKI De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde/Zoom/YouTube/Facebook Wed, July 16
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Explore the artistry of Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Miyazaki Hayao at this powerful lecture and video screening on July 16 at De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde.

If you’ve been craving a night out that hits all the right notes, this is your week! Manila’s stages are alive with must-see acts: Dulce revisits her iconic hits, Kenny G brings his Grammy-winning jazz music to town, and underground venues pulse with indie energy. Want more? Dance through a prom-style throwback, scream-sing to My Chemical Romance's "The Black Parade," or laugh nonstop with SPIT. Just pick a night, pick a vibe, and head out.

DUYOG

DUYOG: The 1st International Youth Orchestra Festival 2025 wraps up with a celebration concert on July 12 at GSIS Theater, Pasay. Witness performances by the Children’s Orchestra Society New York, Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra, and the Manila Symphony Children’s Orchestra. The program includes works by Mendelssohn, Rachmaninov, and Dadap, led by conductors from the USA, Hungary, Italy, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

DUYOG GSIS Theater Sat, July 12
7:30 PM onwards DUYOG brings orchestral magic to GSIS Theater on July 12, uniting ensembles from the Philippines, New York, and beyond in a celebration of youth and harmony.

The Old, The Dead, and The Dying

Local indie darlings The Geeks are back with their signature mid-year gig, "The Old, The Dead, and The Dying," happening July 12 at Mow’s. An unfiltered night of scrappy rock and raw emotion awaits. Catch sets from Eggboy, Pastilan Dong, Spacedog Spacecat, Basement Lung, and of course, The Geeks themselves. Equal parts chaotic and cathartic, it’s a celebration of indie music’s stubborn soul.

The Old, The Dead, and The Dying Mow's Sat, July 12
8:00 PM onwards The Geeks return with their annual anti-celebration, The Old, The Dead, and The Dying, bringing a night of indie absurdity to Mow's on July 12.

Dulce, Wagi!

Asia’s Timeless Diva, Dulce, takes center stage in "Dulce, Wagi!," a grand concert celebrating her illustrious career, set on July 11-12 at the Globe Auditorium, BGC Arts Center. Part of AIP Media Production’s All Hits Series, the concert features beloved Filipino classics and career-defining hits, including the anthem “Ako Ang Nagwagi.” Secure your tickets today!

Dulce, Wagi! Globe Auditorium, Maybank Performing Arts Theater Fri, July 11 8:00 PM onwards Witness Asia’s Timeless Diva like never before in Dulce, Wagi!, a two-night concert elevating her to OPM royalty, happening July 11-12 at the Globe Auditorium.

SoloPOP

See Poppert Bernadas like never before in "SoloPOP," happening July 12 at The Music Museum. This one-night-only concert invites audiences to experience Poppert’s dynamic journey from ensemble standout to commanding solo performer. Having built his career with the renowned Ryan Cayabyab Singers and in acclaimed theater productions such as "Rak of Aegis" and "Godspell," Poppert brings years of artistry to the fore. 

SoloPOP Music Museum Sat, July 12
8:00 PM onwards Poppert Bernadas takes center stage in SoloPOP on July 12 at the Music Museum, delivering powerful vocals in a concert marking his evolution as a solo artist.

PROM: When We Were Young!

Get ready to relive your best prom fantasy at "PROM: When We Were Young!," scheduled on July 12 at Kowloon Dining Hall (above Mow’s). This bash is all about live music, good company, and romance. The night will host an incredible mix of homegrown talent: Any Name’s Okay, HEY JUNE!, Nameless Kids, ALYSON, of Mercury, scarethecats, and a DJ set by byresidents. Early tickets are priced at P500 (solo) or P900 (duo), with higher rates for walk-ins. 

PROM: When We Were Young! Kowloon Dining Hall Sat, July 12
6:00 PM onwards Dance the night away with Any Name’s Okay, HEY JUNE!, Nameless Kids, and more at PROM: When We Were Young!, set on July 12 at Kowloon Dining Hall above Mow’s.

KENNY G LIVE TOUR 2025 IN MANILA

Grammy-winning saxophonist Kenny G returns to Manila on July 15 at the New Frontier Theater. With over 75 million records sold globally and a legacy of timeless instrumentals like “Songbird” and “Forever in Love,” Kenny G is set to deliver an evening of smooth, sultry jazz that speaks straight to the heart. Fans will also be treated to live renditions of tracks from his latest albums, "New Standards" and "Innocence."

KENNY G LIVE TOUR 2025 IN MANILA New Frontier Theater Tue, July 15
8:00 PM - Grammy-winning saxophonist Kenny G returns to Manila for a one-night-only performance at New Frontier Theater on July 15.

Mabuhay: The Black Parade Tour Experience (North Leg)

Mabuhay: The Black Parade Tour Experience (North Leg) takes place on July 13 at Mow’s. This special event kicks off the fan celebrations for My Chemical Romance’s Long Live The Black Parade Tour. Enjoy a 1.5-hour live cover of the iconic "The Black Parade" album by Createurs, Deserted Hope, Hayce Atienza, and Pencils for Armor. This is the ultimate tribute to the 2006 emo rock masterpiece that shaped a generation!

Mabuhay: The Black Parade Tour Experience (North Leg) Mow's Sun, July 13
6:00 PM onwards Scream-sing your heart out at Mabuhay: The Black Parade Tour Experience – North Leg on July 13 at Mow's, Quezon City.

STATawanan: A Night Out with SPIT

Don’t miss STATawanan: A Night Out with SPIT on July 12, live at the UP School of Statistics Auditorium. SPIT Manila—the country’s longest-running improv group—takes the stage for a full-on laugh fest. With over two decades of performing and hundreds of shows, SPIT’s trademark brand of audience-driven humor and fast-paced scenes has won over fans. Expect clever quips, wild suggestions, and scenes crafted entirely on the spot!

STATawanan: A Night Out with SPIT UP School of Statistics Auditorium Sat, July 12
8:00 PM onwards Laugh through the night with SPIT Manila’s quick wit improv at STATawanan: A Night Out with SPIT, set on July 12 at the UP School of Statistics Auditorium.

WILD NIGHTS

Cubao’s about to get loud. "WILD NIGHTS" is hitting Q&A Café & Alfresco Bar on July 12 with an indie lineup that’s nothing short of explosive. Take in performances from TearBox, 536, G.O.D Pilipinas, Better Than Summer, Nudeink, Kill Me Monday, Pencil Case, The Nerd Project, Dear Phoebe, and Neversane; each ready to shake the stage and bring the house down. The P300 entry fee also gets you a cold beer to kickstart your night!

WILD NIGHTS Q&A Café & Alfresco Bar Sat, July 12
8:00 PM onwards Catch the hottest indie bands live at WILD NIGHTS on July 12 at Q&A Café & Alfresco Bar, Cubao—an electrifying evening of music, energy, and local talent!

Sandwich at 70's Bistro

Mark your calendars! 70’s Bistro is bringing the heat on July 15 with a powerhouse lineup of OPM acts: Sandwich, Imago, and Violent Playground! Sandwich is known for hits like “Sugod,” “Betamax,” and “Two Trick Pony” that have become staples of the local music scene. Imago rose to prominence in the early 2000s with their pop-rock and poetic lyricism heard in tracks like “Akap,” “Sundo,” and “Ewan.” Door charge is priced at P800. 

Sandwich at 70's Bistro The 70s Bistro bar Tue, July 15
8:00 PM onwards Catch alt-rock acts Sandwich, Imago, and Violent Playground live at 70’s Bistro this July 15— all for just P800!

It’s 2025, and nothing still beats screaming “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)” at the top of your lungs. If there’s anything that can beat that singular experience, it's sharing it with strangers who feel exactly the same way.

 Last June 14, deep inside Taguig City, a crowd of millennials and Gen Zs gathered to celebrate Emo Night Manila’s 2nd anniversary. 

The gates of McKinley Whiskey Park opened exactly at 9 PM, and all of a sudden, the open-air venue was covered in a sea of black tees, fishnets, battered Vans, and perfectly chipped nail polish manicures. Some had Hot Topic Fall Out Boy shirts; others arrived in full Gerard Way regalia, their black suit and red tie combos taking us all the way back. And don't worry, not one attendee forgot to come in black eyeliner, eager to prove that emo isn’t just a phase.

After all, it’s been about 20 years since the release of My Chemical Romance’s iconic songs, and yet, we still found ourselves belting out the lines like it was just yesterday. And while older millennials have sworn off the studded belts and side-swept fringes, Emo Night Manila gave everybody the permission to return to those simpler times and rock those fits again. If we’re being honest, however, it felt less like coming back to our “emo phase” and more of an overdue acknowledgement that while our clothes have changed, our feelings towards emo have never actually retired. 

As The New York Times once wrote, emo is “punk that wears its heart on its sleeve and tries a little tenderness to leaven its sonic attack.” That night, that tenderness was in full display, tattooed – some literally – over our hearts, ready to swing back bigger than ever.

Pre-Show Vibes

Lines began long before 9 PM, as everyone was eager to enter the venue as soon as possible. And for good reason, the first 30 people who got in were rewarded with free Vans tote bags, while the next 170 snagged P500 vouchers! 

Inside, people were already browsing through the Nine Lives Tattoo & Piercing pop-up’s catalog, lured in by the “Buy One, Take One” deal on ear piercings for only P1,500 that night. Nothing is more punk than a good deal and supporting local businesses – plus the fact that your parents aren’t around to say something about your second lobe stud. 

Emo Night Manila merch was also available for grabs: limited-run t-shirts, caps, and totes for those who wanted to immortalize the night with wearable souvenirs.

Across the faux grass and sea of tables was a Charles & James Whisky booth serving no-nonsense highballs: Ginger Ale Whisky & a straightforward Whiskey & Coke mix. Were they boundary-pushing mixology creations? Nope. But were they exactly what you needed before screaming to iconic emo hits? Absolutely.

As the lawn filled up, everyone quietly milled around with their drinks, settled into their tattoo seat for a session, or found their spot in the grass. The DJs continued to spin not-so-forgotten hits as millennials dusted off their 2004 angst, while Gen Zs emerged ready to emote after last week’s breakup. Still, everyone agrees: we can feel our feelings here – and shout it out to the universe.

Deep Cuts, Mashups, and Chicosci

A rotating roster of DJs started off the night with an emo time capsule, serving a setlist that had everyone mouthing lyrics to songs they hadn’t heard since Multiply was a thing. 

Then came the interesting mashups – equal parts cursed and genius – that got everyone hyped. A Paramore x Chappell Roan mashup mixing “Still Into You” and “HOT TO GO!” was an unexpected combo that worked out perfectly. Soon after, the DJ played a Paramore x TWICE mashup, putting together the background music of “Brick by Boring Brick” with the vocals of “What is Love?” 

Cross-genre music has never sounded so good, and everybody was all for it. Those who know would know that punk, at its core, is about self-expression, accepting individuality while rejecting intolerance. While Chappell Roan’s songs are pop, her camp aesthetic and attitude reject societal norms for what a young girl in pop should look like and how they should act. And while TWICE is a huge K-Pop girl group, K-Pop still gets its share of judgment as a genre that is lyrically foreign for the most part. True emo kids accepted these mashups with open arms, pushing forward the inclusive ethos of the genre.

Around 11:30 PM, Chicosci stormed the stage to the squeal of feedback and a sea of black tees crowding the lawn near the stage. The veteran emo/pop-punk/rock band knows their audience well, and as the crowd yearned for the full-blown, eyeliner-smeared homage to the iconic epitome of emo, My Chemical Romance, they obliged. The crowd screamed and sang out loud to “I’m Not Okay (I Promise),” “Teenagers,” and “Helena.”

Chicosci also slipped in their own classic hits, such as “A Promise,” triggering an instant response from the crowd as it reminded us that the Philippines has plenty of home-grown emo hits to shout to.

By the time their set ended an hour later, the crowd’s energy barely wavered, and the DJs returned to deliver hit after hit. It was like playing a “Greatest Hits” playlist without slowing down, serving hits from Fall Out Boy, Paramore, All American Rejects, Blink 182, Green Day, Linkin Park, Simple Plan, Panic! At The Disco, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, and more.

The night wasn’t young, and the crowd wasn’t full of emo teenagers anymore, but it sure felt like the event could stretch forever, and our backs weren’t hurting.

Emo Night Manila

Detractors love to mock emo as just teenage angst that couldn’t quite reach the hardcore nature of metal. But the subculture refuses to be pushed underground, and emo was never just about the age- and it most certainly was not just a phase! It’s about sharing your emotions out loud, vulnerability amplified through speakers, practically culminating in group therapy as you look around and realize that others feel the same way. No matter how sad, lost, and confused you may feel, you are never alone. 

While screaming/singing out loud until your throat hurts may not solve your problems, Emo Night Manila served as a safe, judgment-free space where you don’t have to keep it bottled up inside. And if this second anniversary is any indication, then we’ll find ourselves back here next year, screaming with lined eyes and distressed skinny jeans, and very much okay with not being okay.

Keep an eye out for Emo Night Manila's future happenings. Check out their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.