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Roses are red, violets are blue, and the SM Mall of Asia Arena lit up in white as fans welcomed Doh Kyung-Soo — better known as D.O. — for his second solo concert tour, “DO it!”

Best known as the powerhouse main vocalist of the global K-Pop phenomenon EXO, D.O. has long captivated audiences with his rich, soulful voice. This time, however, the spotlight was all his. He returned to Manila on Aug. 16, treating Filipino EXO-Ls, Dandanies, and casual listeners alike to an unforgettable night filled with heartfelt performances, playful banter, and plenty of fan interactions. 

Presented by Wilbros Live, the concert featured tracks from his first full-length album, “BLISS,” which showcased a more personal and versatile side of the artist as it explored themes of nostalgia, love, and mental health. From emotional ballads to upbeat numbers, the crowd sang, laughed, and cheered along as he showed exactly why he’s deemed one of the best vocalists in the K-pop industry.

As part of his ongoing tour across Asia — from Seoul to Tokyo — Manila once again proved to be a stop full of love and energy. And yes, The Beat Manila was there to catch all the moments. Here are some of the highlights from our unforgettable night with D.O.!

D.O. Hits Every Note

The singer kicked off the show with “Do You Remember?,” immediately raising the bar and riding the high energy of his Filipino fans as they welcomed him on stage. He followed this up with the album’s breezy opener “Nobody Knows It” and his 2023 track, “Wonder,” before finally greeting everyone.

“The heat in the Philippines is really different! It’s so hot!” The singer said, earning a round of cheers from the audience, which had his eyes widening in surprise. “Why are your reactions so good? Every time I visit here, I am always surprised. Your energy is next level, and we’re only getting started!”

Despite the heat, last Saturday had given us a fair amount of rain, too, which the artist admitted had made him worried for the fans. Fortunately, the weather turned better a couple of hours before the show, and he thanked everyone for making the time to come see him. 

D.O. showed us just why he’s one of the most admired vocalists in the K-Pop industry as he sang song after song from his new album; his vocals were clear, heartfelt, and incredibly steady despite walking up and down the massive stage. The first half of the set featured his more upbeat tracks, such as “Mars,” “5 Minutes,” and his R&B song, “Fit” while the second half highlighted the acoustic and soaring ballads such as “I Do,” “I’ll Be There,” and “IN ANOTHER LIFE.”

Although having just listened to some of these songs for the first time, we were completely immersed in the moment, which we believe was also due to the English subtitles that were flashed on the screens during his performances. D.O. had mentioned them in one of his ments, explaining that he wanted everyone to not only vibe with the music but also understand the meaningful and beautiful lyrics behind each and every one of his songs. 

Some of our favorite moments include his performance of “Popcorn” and the dance pop “SING ALONG,” where he asked everyone to stand up. Their light sticks also danced in a variety of colors, setting the entire arena aglow. 

After that exhilarating performance, D.O. stepped off stage to prepare for the next half of the show, while fans were treated to a karaoke sing-along of some popular EXO songs! Fans were taken back in time when the singer suddenly appeared during “Love Me Right” and sang that iconic high note from the bridge. He then treated EXO-Ls by singing another track from their debut studio album, released in 2013. 

“It’s been such a long time since I’ve sung this song,” he said after singing “Peter Pan.” “Thanks to you guys, I’m able to sing it again.”

Although the rest of the concert showcased more of his ballads and gentler tracks, it was equally engaging and probably more heartfelt, as D.O. sang us songs about being okay despite the difficulties, about being enough, and having the strength to move forward and do everything we set our minds to.

“While writing my album, 'BLISS,' I was thinking that I wanted the fans to receive courage and warmth through the songs,” he revealed. “I truly felt that while I’m performing, you’re really enjoying listening to the songs. I get a lot of energy from that, so thank you very much! I will continue to become an artist who releases beautiful songs.”

Speaking of beautiful, the set design was also equally captivating. At one point, he was lifted into the air on a platform as he serenaded us with “It’s Love” against a backdrop of blue waves. He followed this up with a performance of “My Dear,” where the backdrop transitioned to a glowing crescent moon, setting a more romantic mood. 

Gleeful Laughter and Memorable Surprises

If there’s one other thing D.O. is known for apart from being an impressive vocalist, it’s his good sense of humor. Once deemed the funniest member in EXO, D.O. effortlessly made everyone laugh with his cute comments and banter with the fans. 

We laughed out loud during his encore when he had everyone sing his song “Popcorn” but some kept doing the fan chant. The singer then stopped everyone, directing them to just “sing, please.” When they did it again, D.O. yelled out, “Who was that? You’re doing it on purpose!” — sending the fans into a fit of giggles at his playful, angry expression. 

Having been in the Philippines before, we were also impressed by how he had easily understood some Tagalog terms. He instantly knew what everyone was saying when they chanted “Walang uuwi (no one will go home)” to which he replied that they can’t because their concert is timed, but promised that he’ll come back. He also easily picked up on “Iiyak na 'yan (will you cry?)” during one of his final ments. The K-Pop star sincerely told us that he may not be showing any tears, but he’s crying on the inside. 

Just before he took a commemorative photo with everyone, D.O. was surprised when a video flashed on the screen and the fan project appeared, showcasing photos and video clips from fans. The fandom prepared banners and a massive light sign that read “We can do it all with Kyungsoo!” — a touching moment between artist and fans, proving that their relationship is give and take and that the message he wanted to send with this new album has gotten through. 

From laugh-out-loud moments to memorable performances, D.O. truly gave us a beautiful memory we won’t soon forget. As fans of EXO and K-Pop music in general, we were simply captivated by his talent — not just vocally, but also in the way he moves people with his music. A win for EXO-Ls and Dandanies, indeed. We simply can’t wait for his next return to Manila!

For updates, you can follow D.O. on Instagram. You can also check out Wilbros Live’s official Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram pages for more details on upcoming concerts in Manila.

Strap in! Manila's nightlife is hitting maximum volume this week. From the legendary beats of the Black Eyed Peas to the K-pop adrenaline of Highlight and Yoon San-ha, the calendar’s stacked with unmissable gigs and fancons. OPM lovers can get their fix with Lani Misalucha, Hale, December Avenue, and indie standouts at Mow’s and Mandala Park. You’ve got one electric stretch of August nights ahead. Don't miss out! 

BLACK EYED PEAS LIVE IN MANILA

Get ready to pump it! The Black Eyed Peas are finally bringing their explosive live show to the SM Mall of Asia Arena on Aug. 27. For over 30 years, will.i.am, Apl.de.Ap, and Taboo have dominated global charts with anthems like "I Gotta Feeling," "Where is the Love?," "Boom Boom Pow," and "Let’s Get It Started." With over 35 million albums and 120 million singles sold worldwide, they’ve cemented their place as one of the most influential groups in pop and hip-hop history. Grab your tickets now!

Black Eyed Peas Live In Manila MOA Arena Wed, August 27
8:00 PM onwards Catch BLACK EYED PEAS live in Manila on Aug. 27 at MOA Arena for an unforgettable night of global hits.

BRAVO! MANILA

Mark your calendars for "Bravo! Manila" on Aug. 23 at The Theatre at Solaire. This spectacular musical event is headlined by "The Voice USA" winner Sofronio Vasquez, acclaimed musical theater artist Bituin Escalante, and vocal powerhouse Jed Madela. They will be joined by "Tawag ng Tanghalan" standouts Lyka Estrella and Carmelle Collado, who will deliver performances that highlight the breadth and brilliance of Filipino musical artistry.

BRAVO! MANILA The Theatre at Solaire Sat, August 23
7:00 PM onwards Celebrate Filipino excellence at Bravo Manila on Aug. 23 at The Theatre at Solaire, featuring world-class vocal talents.

HIGHLIGHT LIVE 2025 'RIDE OR DIE' IN MANILA

Feel the rush as HIGHLIGHT roars into Manila on Aug. 23 at the New Frontier Theater. Members YOON DUJUN, YANG YOSEOP, LEE GIKWANG, and SON DONGWOON will take fans on an epic ride through their discography, from timeless hits like "Shock" and "Fiction" to their latest release, "Chains." VIP and CAT 1 ticketholders can access the "AFTER TALK" session, while raffle winners from VIP, CAT 1, and CAT 2 can claim signed memorabilia or group photo ops with the members!

HIGHLIGHT LIVE 2025 'RIDE OR DIE' IN MANILA New Frontier Theater Sat, August 23
onwards Catch HIGHLIGHT LIVE 2025 [RIDE OR DIE] in Manila on Aug. 23 for an unforgettable K-pop concert experience!

2025 Yoon San-ha Fancon in Manila

Attention, AROHAs! ASTRO’s maknae, Yoon San Ha, returns to Manila for his "PRISM: FROM Y to A" fan-con on Aug. 24 at SM North EDSA Skydome. This follows the release of his second mini-album, "CHAMELEON." Ticket prices range from P5,500 to P11,500. SVIP ticket holders will have exclusive access to a welcoming event, soundcheck session, and raffles for group photos, signed posters, and Polaroids. Grab your tickets now!

2025 Yoon San-ha Fancon in Manila SKYDOME, SM City North Edsa Sun, August 24
6:00 PM onwards Catch Yoon San-ha live in his 2025 Fancon on Aug. 24 at SKYDOME, SM City North Edsa!

STILL LANI

Witness the triumphant return of Asia’s Nightingale, Lani Misalucha, in her long-awaited 40th anniversary concert "STILL LANI" on Aug. 21 at The Theatre at Solaire. Lani will be accompanied by a 40-piece orchestra under the musical direction of Toma Cayabyab. The show will also feature special performances from Ben&Ben, Leanne & Naara, Shaira Opsimar, and Paeng Sudayan. Expect first-time collaborations, stirring arrangements, and Lani delivering her greatest hits.

STILL LANI The Theatre at Solaire Thu, August 21
8:00 PM onwards Witness Lani Misalucha’s powerful comeback in STILL LANI on Aug. 21 at The Theatre at Solaire.

This Mow’s Be The Place

Turn up the volume for Elev8 Me L8r’s “This Mow’s Be The Place,” going down on Aug. 22 at Mow’s. The lineup includes O.I. Research Partners, Oh, Flamingo!, cherryfocus, scarethecats, Tricky, and Fatigued, with Lovely Loser taking over the decks for a closing DJ set. Gates open at 6 PM. Tickets are priced at P350 for presale and P450 for walk-ins. Round up your gig buddies, grab a drink, and burn down the house with this stellar roster of acts.

This Mow’s Be The Place Mow’s Bar Fri, August 22
6:00 PM onwards Dance the night away at Mow’s Bar on Aug. 22, 2025, with top indie acts and Lovely Loser.

2025 JANG DONG WOO FAN-CON TOUR 'CONNECTION' IN MANILA

Calling all Filo INSPIRITS! Jang Dongwoo is making his way to Manila for his first solo fan-con tour on Aug. 25 at the SM North EDSA Skydome. From his breakout years with INFINITE to acclaimed performances in musical theater, Dongwoo has built a reputation as a powerhouse performer who connects deeply with his audience. Every ticket comes with a Hi-Touch, an exclusive photocard, and an official poster. VIP ticket holders will enjoy soundcheck access.

2025 JANG DONG WOO FAN-CON TOUR CONNECTION IN MANILA SM North EDSA Skydome Mon, August 25
6:00 PM onwards Celebrate K-pop excellence with Jang Dongwoo live at SM North EDSA Skydome on Aug. 25 at 6PM!

One Year of ‘All These and More’

Indie folk band The Ridleys takes the stage at 123 Block, Mandala Park on Aug. 23 to mark a year since the release of their beloved album, "All These and More." The band will perform the album in full alongside the SWMAH Ensemble. The night gets even better with long sets from fellow local favorites Clara Benin, Munimuni, and Shanne Dandan. Tickets are priced at P2,000 (VIP) and P800 (Regular). This is a standing gig only.

One Year of ‘All These and More’ 123 Block Mandala Park Sat, August 23
6:00 PM onwards Celebrate "All These and More" on Aug. 23, 2025 at 123 Block with The Ridleys, Clara Benin, and more.

Heartstrings: Timeless Tunes of Love

Catch "Heartstrings: Timeless Tunes of Love" topbilled by "Tawag Ng Tanghalan" alums JM Dela Cerna and Marielle Montellano (JMielle) on Aug. 22 at the SM North EDSA Skydome. This 2nd anniversary concert will showcase the duo’s signature harmonies and heartfelt performances, featuring timeless Filipino love songs and tracks from their recent EP "JMielle in Love." Adding star power to the evening is special guest Ogie Alcasid.

Heartstrings: Timeless Tunes of Love SM North EDSA Sky Dome Fri, August 22
8:00 PM onwards Celebrate two years of JM Dela Cerna and Marielle Montellano’s musical journey with special guest Ogie Alcasid on Aug. 22 at SM North EDSA Skydome.

Hale x December Avenue at 12 Monkeys

Hale and December Avenue join forces for a night of OPM magic at 12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub on Aug.  21. From Hale’s timeless hits "The Day You Said Goodnight," "Blue Sky," "Kahit Pa," and "Runaway" to December Avenue’s modern classics "Bulong," "Huling Sandali," and "Kung ‘Di Rin Lang Ikaw," this gig promises a soundtrack of love, longing, and nostalgia. Also in the lineup are Carissa and 25 Abbey. Secure your spot for a night of soulful melodies and sing-along anthems.

Hale x December Avenue at 12 Monkeys 12 Monkeys Music Hall and Pub Thu, August 21
6:00 PM onwards Catch Hale and December Avenue live at 12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub on Aug. 21, joined by Carissa and 25 Abbey for an unforgettable night of OPM.

It’s a fire lineup in Manila this week, no skips, all hits. Get loud with Real Friends’ punk catharsis, ride the K-pop wave with EXO's D.O. at Mall of Asia Arena, and dive deep into OPM feels at “Yugto.” Whether you're craving stand-up comic relief, intimate string quartet moments, or a full-blown Viva fanfest, the city’s got your nights covered. Read on for all the deets!

Real Friends Live in Manila

American pop-punk powerhouse Real Friends is set to ignite Manila on Aug. 15 with an emotionally charged, high-octane performance at Bar IX, Molito Lifestyle Center, Alabang. Best known for fan favorites "From the Outside," "Me First," and "I’ve Given Up on You," the Illinois-based band has built a global following for their honest lyrics and explosive live sets. Ticket tiers include VIP with bar chow and drink, regular standing access, and a Barkada Package with 6 VIP passes and a bottle of Jack Daniel’s.

Real Friends Live in Manila Bar IX, Manila Fri, August 15
6:00 PM onwards Real Friends brings their emotionally charged live show to Bar IX, Manila on Aug. 15, 2025, 6 PM!

Doh Kyung Soo Asia Concert Tour – ‘DO it!’ in Manila

Attention, EXO-Ls and Dandanies! D.O. (Doh Kyung Soo) lands in Manila for his much-awaited "DO it!" Asia Tour on Aug. 16 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. D.O. will perform tracks from his celebrated solo releases, "Empathy," "Expectation," and "Blossom." The EXO member and actor will take fans on a journey through heartfelt ballads and pop anthems, a testament to his artistic growth. Tickets are available via SMTickets.com. Grab yours now!

Doh Kyung Soo Asia Concert Tour – ‘DO it!’ in Manila SM Mall of Asia Arena Sat, August 16
6:00 PM onwards Catch K-pop sensation Doh Kyung Soo live in Manila on Aug. 16, 2025, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

VIVARKADA 2025: The Ultimate FanCon and Grand Concert

Viva One's biggest youth stars will take the stage at "Vivarkada 2025" on Aug. 15 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. This ultimate fancon will feature casts from Viva’s top series, including "The Rain in España," "Bad Genius: The Series," "Ang Mutya ng Section E," and "Seducing Drake Palma." With live musical performances, fan interactions, and behind-the-scenes moments brought to life, "Vivarkada" delivers a fully immersive night that celebrates the growing Vivaverse. 

VIVARKADA 2025: The Ultimate FanCon and Grand Concert Smart Araneta Coliseum Fri, August 15
8:00 PM onwards Join VIVARKADA 2025 on Aug. 15 at Smart Araneta Coliseum for the ultimate fan convention and star-studded concert!

Victor Anastacio: Wala Sa Netflix 1 Hour Comedy Special

Filipino comedian Victor Anastacio returns with "Wala Sa Netflix Special," a stand-up performance on Aug. 16 at the Henry Lee Irwin Theater, Ateneo de Manila University. Victor’s brand of comedy doesn’t rely on slapstick or stereotypes. He dives into the complexities of Filipino life, from class privilege and colonial hang-ups to awkward charity flexes and middle-class contradictions. He’s not on Netflix, but he’s definitely in his element live!

Victor Anastacio: Wala Sa Netflix 1 Hour Comedy Special Henry Lee Irwin Theater, Ateneo De Manila University Sat, August 16
8:00 PM onwards Laugh out loud with Victor Anastacio’s Wala Sa Netflix 1-hour comedy special on Aug. 16 at Ateneo!

YUGTO: Buhay at Pag-Ibig – A Concert for a Cause

Don't miss "YUGTO: Buhay at Pag-Ibig, A Concert for a Cause" happening this Aug. 15 at Newport Performing Arts Theater. With Cup of Joe’s viral hit "Multo" now reaching nearly 260 million Spotify streams and Maris Racal earning praise for her cinematic breakthrough in "Sunshine," their joint performance promises to be a highlight of the night. Also taking the stage are hugot hitmakers Amiel Sol ("Tibok") and Earl Agustin ("Sa Bawat Sandali"). Get your tickets now!

YUGTO: Buhay at Pag-Ibig – A Concert for a Cause Newport Theater Fri, August 15
8:30 PM onwards Celebrate life and love at YUGTO: A Concert for a Cause on Aug. 15, 8:30PM, at Newport Theater.

40° & Rising

Systems Plus College Foundation (SPCF) marks 40 years with "40° & Rising," a grand concert slated for Aug. 15 at the SPCF Sports Center. This celebration brings together SPCnians, alumni, families, friends, and stakeholders. OPM stars TJ Monterde, KZ Tandingan, Sponge Cola, Zack Tabudlo, Adie, and Hey June! ft. Mark Daniel will also perform. The event will be hosted by "Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition" alums Shuvee Etrata and Michael Sager.

40° & Rising Systems Plus College Foundation Fri, August 15
6:00 PM onwards Celebrate 40 years of SPCF at the 40° & Rising concert on Aug. 15 with TJ Monterde, KZ Tandingan, Sponge Cola, and more live at the SPCF Sports Center Angeles.

Daluyan

Slow down and pause the daily grind with "Daluyan" a candlelit music gathering on Aug. 16, 2025, at G Studios, Las Piñas. With live music by a string quartet, curated non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, and a refined grazing table, "Daluyan" offers a tranquil escape, a world of calm, elegance, and meaningful connection. Tickets are priced at P2,400 (early bird), P2,800 (regular), and P3,000 (last call/walk-in). Alcoholic beverages will be served to guests aged 18+ only.

Daluyan G Studios Sat, August 16
5:00 PM onwards Join "Daluyan," a candlelit string quartet experience happening August 16 at G Studios, Las Piñas.

The Causality of Choices

"The Causality of Choices" unfolds on Aug. 16 at Sari Sari. This epic gig explores moments of grief, love, rebellion, and identity made manifest in sound. Each set moves the narrative forward, inviting you to feel its emotional ripple. The lineup includes local indie acts Irrevocable, Cream Flower, emma bot, Bajula, Fairview Far, Lara - ララ, and Co/urt PH. Tickets are priced at P400 and include a free beer. Come ready to reflect, feel, and perhaps choose a path anew.

The Causality of Choices Sari Sari Sat, August 16
7:00 PM onwards Catch "The Causality of Choices," a night of live music on August 16 at Sari Sari, where every performance represents a path taken.

All-Star Grand Resbak: The Concert

Get ready for a vocal spectacle like no other at "All-Star Grand Resbak: The Concert," scheduled on Aug. 16 at the New Frontier Theater. From emotional tracks to high-energy numbers, the concert will feature a dynamic mix of musical genres and exciting collaborations, all delivered by the TNT All-Star Grand Resbakers. With their vocal range, powerful interpretations, and compelling stage presence, these artists are ready to showcase their growth and artistry in one massive celebration.

All-Star Grand Resbak: The Concert New Frontier Theater Sat, August 16
8:00 PM onwards Catch TNT All-Star Grand Resbak live on Aug. 16 at New Frontier Theater for one epic musical showdown.

LIFE IS A CABARET! Spot On Cabaret’s 1st Birthday

Spot On Cabaret is turning one, and you're invited to their most spectacular night yet on Aug. 19 at District One Gastrolounge, BGC. This special anniversary edition, titled "Life is a Cabaret!," will spotlight a star-studded cast including Jon Santos, Marvin Ong, Paw Castillo, Pam Imperial, Ikey Canoy, Jamie Inocian, and many more. This show is also a special fundraiser in support of singer-actress May Bayot – De Castro. Secure your tickets today!

LIFE IS A CABARET! Spot On Cabaret’s 1st Birthday District One Gastrolounge Tue, August 19
8:00 PM onwards Celebrate Spot On Cabaret’s 1st birthday on Aug. 19 at District One Gastrolounge, BGC, with an unforgettable night of performances.

Wander through the first-ever "WanderMart Travel Expo" at Okada Manila, race and contribute to scholarships at "Race for Life 2025," or savor fiery flavors at "Alab at Lasa." Ballet fans and art enthusiasts can also look forward to the Asian Grand Prix Gala, Komiket, and VISION photo exhibit. From big ideas to bold flavors, the metro is serving all the vibes. So get out there and explore what’s happening!

WanderMart: Travel and Lifestyle Expo at Okada Manila

Okada Manila invites you to discover your next great adventure at the inaugural "WanderMart: Travel & Lifestyle Expo," scheduled this Aug. 15-17 at the hotel's Crystal Pavilion. This marks the first time a local integrated resort is hosting a full-scale travel fair. WanderMart will host top airlines, cruise lines, luxury resorts, banks, retail brands, and tourism boards. Score ready-to-book holiday deals, local getaways, exclusive international tours, and limited-edition items. Don’t miss your shot at winning prizes like round-trip flights to South Korea and an overnight stay at the Sky Villa!

WanderMart: Travel and Lifestyle Expo | Okada Manila Okada Manila Fri, August 15 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Wander into your next getaway at WanderMart, a first-of-its-kind travel and lifestyle expo hosted by Okada Manila from Aug. 15-17, featuring exclusive deals.

Asian Grand Prix - 15th Anniversary Gala

The Asian Grand Prix 15th Anniversary Gala is set for Aug. 16 at the Aliw Theater. This event brings together international guest stars and leading Filipino ballet companies. The lineup features ballet luminaries Joy Womack, Boris Zhurilov, Renata Shakirova, and Kimin Kim, performing alongside dancers from Alice Reyes Dance Philippines, Ballet Manila, Ballet Philippines, and Philippine Ballet Theatre — many of whom are former Asian Grand Prix awardees. Secure your seats now via TicketWorld.

Asian Grand Prix - 15th Anniversary Gala Aliw Theater Sat, August 16
7:30 PM onwards Celebrate 15 years of world-class ballet at the Asian Grand Prix Anniversary Gala on Aug. 16 at Aliw Theater, with international stars and top ballet companies.

Race for Life 2025

Fuel dreams with every step at "Race for Life 2025: Takbo Para sa Pangarap," scheduled on Aug. 16 at the SM Mall of Asia Complex. This sunrise fun run is a community movement supporting scholars through the Real LIFE Foundation. Since its inception in 2003, Race for Life has helped fund over 3,000 educational scholarships for underprivileged youth. Your participation directly contributes to shaping futures through education, character building, and leadership training. 

Race for Life 2025 SM MOA Complex Sat, August 16
3:30 AM onwards Join Race for Life 2025 on Aug. 16 at SM MOA Complex to run for scholarships and change lives!

FIRED UP: Alab at Lasa

Get ready to feel the heat! "FIRED UP: Alab at Lasa" is taking over Ayala Malls Feliz from Aug. 15-17, with an explosion of chili-fueled fun and proud Filipino flavor. Discover a sizzling lineup of local artisan eats, mouth-numbing sauces, and homegrown products, all in one spot. Whether you're a casual foodie or a spice-hungry thrill-seeker, this event is made for you. Meet the makers and celebrate the cultural heritage behind your favorite dishes.

FIRED UP: Alab at Lasa Ayala Malls Feliz Fri, August 15 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spice up your weekend at FIRED UP: Alab at Lasa, a bold celebration of Filipino flavor and fiery cuisine, happening from Aug. 15–17 at Ayala Malls Feliz!

Vision: South Metro in Focus

"VISION: South Metro in Focus – Photo Expo 2025" is slated from Aug. 14-17 at the Alabang Town Center. This inaugural gathering is the biggest of its kind in Southern Metro Manila, uniting photography and videography communities, gear lovers, and storytelling enthusiasts under one roof. Check out the latest innovations from top brands, including FUJIFILM (X | GFX), Canon EOS, Sony, Nikon, and more. Running alongside the expo is a special photo exhibit tribute to Filipino workers.

Vision: South Metro in Focus Alabang Town Center Thu, August 14 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Head to Alabang Town Center for VISION: South Metro in Focus, a photo expo and exhibit happening Aug. 14–17, spotlighting the PH's passionate photo community.

PEPE DELFIN: A Bird, A Cage, A God of Flowers

MONO8 Gallery presents "A Bird, A Cage, A God of Flowers" by contemporary Filipino artist Pepe Delfin, on display until Sept. 27. Inspired by Mary Oliver’s "The Kookaburras," the exhibit captures the tension between confinement and freedom, silence and expression. Rather than depict trauma directly, Delfin anatomizes it, turning abstraction into a healing conduit. Viewers are invited to engage with each work as a site of emotional resonance and layered meaning.

PEPE DELFIN: A Bird, A Cage, A God of Flowers MONO8 Sat, July 26 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM Experience abstract storytelling at MONO8’s latest exhibit, "A Bird, A Cage, A God of Flowers" by Pepe Delfin, exploring trauma through geometric abstraction.

Komiket Manila Bay

KOMIKET lands at Ayala Malls Manila Bay on Aug. 15-17 with an exciting lineup of over 60 homegrown artists and creators offering komiks, zines, stickers, prints, crafts, and collectibles that span the cute, the quirky, and the cosmic. There will also be booths from Pol Medina Jr, SSKAIT, Beerkada, Hunghang Flashbacks, Gigil Astigmata Studios, and Butatow Artist Collective, among others. So bring your tote bags, and discover what’s new in the Filipino komiks scene!

Komiket Manila Bay Ayala Malls Manila Bay Fri, August 15 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM KOMIKET MANILA BAY returns on August 15-17 at Ayala Malls Manila Bay with local komiks, zines, prints, and merch from 60+ artists—free admission.

RCBC Tap-to-Phone Launch & Bazaar

Discover the latest leap in mobile payments at the "RCBC Tap-to-Phone Launch" on Aug. 15 at One Ayala Mall. This event introduces RCBC’s new payment solution for compatible Android phones: a tap-to-pay POS terminal. RCBC Tap-to-Phone empowers businesses to go fully mobile — no need for bulky hardware or long setups. Beyond the launch, the event features a bazaar with local sellers, and attendees can test the Tap-to-Phone technology in real-time!

RCBC Tap-to-Phone Launch & Bazaar One Ayala (Ayala Malls) Fri, August 15
12:00 PM onwards RCBC is launching its Tap-to-Phone tech at One Ayala Mall on August 15—drop by for on-the-spot merchant sign-ups, contactless payment demos, and a bazaar.

Live Entertainment Technology Expo: Musik Manila 2025

Musik Manila 2025 takes center stage at World Trade Center Manila from Aug. 14-16. This leading trade show features the latest in professional audio systems, lighting technology, LED displays, staging, broadcasting tools, and digital entertainment solutions. Musik Manila offers invaluable opportunities to network with global brands and peers, explore new gear, and stay ahead in the live entertainment industry. Register now!

Live Entertainment Technology Expo | Musik Manila 2025 World Trade Center Metro Manila Thu, August 14 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Musik Manila 2025 returns to the World Trade Center Manila from August 14-16, featuring the region’s top live entertainment tech brands, demos, and workshops.

MOM & BABY BOOTCAMP Workshop Series 5

Join Baby Company and Lansinoh for an insightful parenting workshop on Aug. 16 at SM Makati. Tailored for expecting parents and those with newborns, this session offers expert guidance from Doula Pat Soliman, a certified breastfeeding counselor, and Joanne Stefanie Filart, a psychologist specializing in early development. Participants can look forward to informative discussions, loaded loot bags, and raffle prizes. Advanced registration is encouraged. 

MOM & BABY BOOTCAMP Workshop Series 5 SM Makati Sat, August 16
1:00 PM onwards Expectant parents are invited to an enriching workshop on breastfeeding and infant play on Aug. 16 at SM Makati, featuring expert talks, prizes, and loot bags.

“If you make eye contact with him… System error,” a fan said, which perfectly encapsulates our experience after seeing Ju Ji Hoon. 

The beloved “Princess Hours” actor graced the Newport Performing Arts Theater stage in Manila last Aug. 2, meeting with over 1,500 Filipino fans for his first-ever fan meet event in the country!

The South Korean actor has starred in a variety of hit K-Dramas through the years, including “Princess Hours” (2006), where he played the brooding Crown Prince Lee Shin, “Mask” (2015), and “The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call (2025) for which he won Best Actor at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards. He also starred in a string of popular films such as “Asura: The City of Madness” (2016) and “Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds (2017).”

So, it’s no surprise that a great actor like Ji Joon has a legion of fans and admirers across the region, with the Hallyu star currently on his Asia Fan Meet Tour, having already stopped in Taipei and Bangkok. The JUNIVERSE in MANILA was nothing short of fun with the actor bringing the kilig and stealing hearts left and right with his easy-going smile and loveable personality. 

Ji Hoon kicked off the show with his rendition of Lee Juck’s “Relieved.” Host Sam Oh led a couch talk with the actor where they discussed about his acting career, answered fan questions and requests, and even teased about two upcoming projects he’s currently working on — one of which is the adaptation of the popular webtoon “The Remarried Princess,” where he’ll be working with other well-known stars like Shin Min-ah, Lee Se-young and Lee Jong-suk. 

Known to have portrayed varying characters in the past, Ji Hoon acknowledged that every person is different in “various ways,” which gives him room to be creative in the characters he plays on screen.  

“Whenever I talk to directors or my colleagues about a specific role, I don’t have a specific idea of how a role is supposed to be played. I accept what other people say about them,” he explained. “I’m the type of person who accepts and understands that people have different thoughts about a certain character. It helps me a lot in setting up my own character as well, so I’m very thankful.”

The actor also showed much love for his fans and went all out with the fan service as he signed posters, gave warm hugs, and even played games with them through the interactive segment. Some memorable moments include a lucky fan recreating the popular “Zootopia” selfie trend with him and Ji Hoon learning to say Tagalog terms from “Mahal kita” to “Gigil ako!”

Ji Hoon also acquiesced to fans’ request to bring his character, Dr. Baek Gang Hyeok from “Trauma Code: Heroes on Call," to life by shouting his favorite word, “Shut up!” 

Never would we have thought a room full of fans would be screaming and cheering after being told this. When asked how he managed to come up with the way of delivering it, Ji Hoon adorably answered, “I just did it with a happy heart like this.”

Despite this being his first fan meet, Ji Hoon revealed that he had actually visited the country before. When asked whether he had tried some of the local fare, the actor replied, “Whenever I go visit another country, I always visit the local market, so I try local food a lot. I don’t remember the exact name of the dish, but I remember eating some kind of fried rice dish and an iced shaved dessert (Halo-Halo).” He also added that he tried a crispy pork dish, which we assumed was the classic Crispy Pata. 

Speaking of delicious food, we observed that Ji Hoon maintains a lean physique, standing at six feet tall with a slightly muscular build. The host asked what he consumes to make him look this way, to which he honestly answered, “I still maintain my usual diet, but I eat a lot more meat. Since the character that I’m going through right now is asking me to have a more defined body, I’m eating a lot more meat.”

A group of lucky fans also got the chance to take photos with the actor, wrapping up a truly memorable event for everyone there. 

For updates on his upcoming dramas and movies, follow Ju Ji Hoon on Instagram.