Global, local talents shine at SM MOA Arena

American vocal group 98 Degrees delivers a show-stopping performance at SM Mall of Asia Arena.

A wave of global acts and local talents took over the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena as it celebrated numerous milestones and various forms of art in the venue. Home to premier live acts, the venue has become a top-of-mind space where the world-class stage becomes a sanctuary for the arts. Amongst the headlining acts were 98 Degrees Live in Manila Tour, Wish Date: Refrain, Mighty to Save Tour, and G-Force Project 2025, who headlined sold-out shows and evoked powerful emotion.

98 Degrees ignites a wave of '90s nostalgia music

On May 30 and 31, the SM MOA Arena pulsed with energy as iconic vocal group 98 Degrees brought their 25th-anniversary concert to Manila. Celebrating a quarter-century of hits and the release of their new album "Full Circle," the American quartet gave an electrifying performance that transported the audience straight back to the '90s.

The SM Mall of Asia Arena comes alive as 98 Degrees celebrates 25 years of music in Manila.

Fans sang along passionately to timeless hits like "I Do," "Because of You," and "Una Noche," which have become beloved staples in Filipino music. The stage also saw a dynamic collaboration with world-class Filipino artists Jonalyn Viray and Janine Teñoso.

98 Degrees presents a mesmerizing performance of “Mona Lisa” with Janine Teñoso.

Filipino talent shines as Jonalyn Viray shares the stage with 98 Degrees, uniting global and local musical prowess.

@moa.arena Is this how success looks like? 🧐 Take a look at some lucky fans who got serenaded by 98 Degrees themselves during their performance of "You are my Everything"! #98DegreesAtMOAArena #ChangingTheGameElevatingEntertainment ♬ original sound - SM Mall of Asia Arena

Fans are serenaded with heartfelt melodies during the performance of “My Everything.”

The band's heartfelt performance of "Hardest Thing" served as a touching farewell, with members expressing their gratitude to the Philippines for being a core reason for their enduring 25-year career.

@moa.arena The hardest thing we'll have to do is say goodbye 😭💕 Watch 98 Degrees sing their heartfelt farewell for day 2 at the SM MOA Arena. #98DegreesAtMOAArena #ChangingTheGameElevatingEntertainment ♬ original sound - SM Mall of Asia Arena

98 Degrees brings emotion to the stage with their performance of “Hardest Thing.”

Wish Date: Refrain – A symphony of emotions

The musical journey continued on June 1 with Wish Date: Refrain, an emotionally charged event inspired by fan stories shared with Wish 107.5's fictional DJ Dr. Clark. The SM MOA Arena transformed into a setting where film and live music intertwined to create a fascinating experience.

Eager fans pose for a photo ahead of the Wish Date: Refrain event.

The audience was deeply moved by the enchanting voices of prominent artists like Lani Misalucha and Nyoy Volante. Adding another layer of artistry, live performances by Mark Carpio, Over October, Letters from June, Kate Yalung, JC Alcantara, William Lorenzo, Robbie Packing, Eisel Serrano, and Tyrone Tan brought inspiring narratives to life.

Lani Misalucha captivates with an impactful performance during Wish Date: Refrain.

@moa.arena There's always a song for every story here at Wish Date: Refrain! 🎶 Check out some highlights from the event here! #WishDateAtMOAArena #ChangingTheGameElevatingEntertainment ♬ original sound - SM Mall of Asia Arena

Concertgoers witness live performances and memorable highlights from Wish Date: Refrain.

A sold-out night for Hillsong Worship

Exploding in cheers and heightened emotion, the venue erupted in joyful worship last June 7-8, with the venue holding a sold-out night on its first day with CXMMNXNS, including Hillsong Worship members Reuben Morgan and Ben Fielding, featuring Aodhan King.

Members of Hillsong Worship Reuben Morgan, Ben Fielding, and Aodhan King take the stage.

With hands in the air and hearts beating as one, the crowd swayed and sang along to every beat of each song emanating from the Hillsong Worship leaders, such as “What a Beautiful Name,” “Hosanna,” “I Give You My Heart,” and “God is Able.” 

@moa.arena SAVIOUR, HE CAN MOVE THE MOUNTAINS 🗣️🎶 Watch as Hillsong Worship takes the stage, leading the crowd in worship for an uplifting performance of "Mighty to Save"! #HillsongWorshipAtMOAArena #ChangingTheGameElevatingEntertainment ♬ original sound - SM Mall of Asia Arena

Hillsong Worship's rendition of “Mighty to Save” leaves a mark on the hearts of attendees.

Through a collective experience, this premier venue turned into a home where the faithful found peace and embarked on a spiritual journey alongside thousands of those who shared the same emotion, zeal, and experience.

Unlocking the potential of young talents

G-Force Dance Center returned to the SM MOA Arena last June 11 for a mesmerizing stage where a new generation of dancers unlocked their potential in the art of dance, transforming the arena into a stage where world-class talents are nurtured and where the first spark of potential ignites.

A striking opening number from the G-Force Dance Center as they open G-Force Project 2025.

This event celebrated the 20th anniversary of G-Force Dance Center, founded by teacher Georcelle Dapat-Sy. It stands as a reflection of her unwavering commitment as a visionary who has transformed dance into an empowering profession in the Philippines.

Founder and teacher Georcelle Dapat-Sy and G-Force Dance Center mentors showcase a heart-stirring dance performance, highlighting two decades in the dance industry.

Among its many highlights was returning G-Force-trained student Cassy Legaspi, who took the stage along with local artist Maja Salvador. 

@moa.arena They could describe anything with one single word: ✨SLAYED✨ Cassy Legaspi returns to the stage of G-Force Dance Team with a lit dance cover of "Gnarly" by KATSEYE. #GForceProject2025 #GForceAtMOAArena #ChangingTheGameElevatingEntertainment ♬ original sound - SM Mall of Asia Arena

Cassy Legaspi joins G-Force Dance Center mentors for an epic performance of “Gnarly” by KATSEYE.

Celebrating talent and the arts

As the arts continue to flourish in the country, the SM MOA Arena stands firmly as a premier destination for world-class entertainment. Its versatility in hosting a wide range of events reflects a strong commitment to supporting the diverse field of artistry, as it steps in as a cultural hub of expression and cultural landscape.

SM MOA Arena extends its heartfelt gratitude to Viva Live Inc., KDR Music House, MYLE Productions, and G-Force Dance Center Corporation for creating a special platform that allows individuals to explore the arts in its many forms. This partnership not only showcased an array of artists but also emphasized the transformative impact of empowering local and global talents.

About SM Mall of Asia Arena

SM Mall of Asia Arena is the preferred venue, offering world-class services and facilities, to provide the best in international and local live entertainment and thrilling sports event experiences. For more information, visit www.mallofasia-arena.com or follow @moaarena on social media. Tickets for upcoming events can be purchased online at www.smtickets.com or at any authorized SM Tickets outlet nationwide.