It was a back-to-back celebration of music and fandom as the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena hosted two electrifying concerts this May 2025: Japanese sensation Ado‘s sold-out “HIBANA” World Tour on May 8, and the much-anticipated Playback Music Festival on May 9—bringing early 2000s rock and emo nostalgia back to center stage.
Ado ignites the stage with soul-stirring J-Pop
Japanese singer Ado captivated thousands of Filipino fans in her first-ever live performance in the country. Known for her mysterious, faceless persona and dynamic vocal prowess, Ado turned the SM MOA Arena into a dramatic soundscape for her HIBANA World Tour, named after the Japanese word for “spark.”
A massive cage suspended above the stage set the tone for an unforgettable theatrical display. With her powerful vocals and expressive movements, Ado delivered an electrifying performance that transcended identity—focusing instead on raw, unfiltered emotion.
In a heartfelt moment, Ado thanked her fans for the overwhelming support, saying, “Your happiness is my happiness.” The concert marked a spark not only in her world tour, but in the growing love for Japanese music in the Philippines.
Playback Music Festival brings the 2000s back
Just a day later, the Playback Music Festival transformed the SM MOA Arena into a haven for emo hearts and punk rock souls. Featuring iconic 2000s bands like Secondhand Serenade, The Click Five, and Boys Like Girls, the festival was a sonic throwback that united generations of fans under one nostalgic banner.
Crowds arrived dressed in all-black outfits, side bangs, chunky belts, and band tees—channeling the expressive style of the era. Official merch booths and fan activities added to the immersive pre-show experience.
Secondhand Serenade opened the night with emotional ballads like “Fall for You,” stirring sing-alongs and tears from the crowd. The Click Five kept the energy upbeat with hits like “Just the Girl” and a surprise cover of “Hot to Go” by Chappell Roan, ending with the fan-favorite “Jenny.”
Headliners Boys Like Girls closed the show with their performance of “2>1” left the arena buzzing with emotion.
The Playback Music Festival continues to be a safe space for fans to relive their youth, embrace individuality, and celebrate an era that shaped a generation through music.
A world-class venue for unforgettable music moments
With back-to-back sold-out shows, SM MOA Arena cements its role as the premier venue for international and local music events. From J-Pop excellence to emo anthems, the Arena proves it’s the ultimate stage for unforgettable fan experiences.
SM MOA Arena thanks Ovation Productions for Ado’s debut show in the Philippines, and Super Awesome Productions Inc. for bringing the Playback Music Festival back to Manila.