J-Pop’s Ado, Playback Music Fest light up SM MOA Arena

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

Ado’s WORLD TOUR 2025 ‘HIBANA’ stage. Photo from Ado’s staff on Instagram.

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 group of Ado’s fans posing with their merchandise.

Fans cosplaying in maid outfits snap a pic before the concert.

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Fans show off their support through Japanese-inspired outfits and artist merchandise.

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. 

Thousands of Ado’s fans gather at SM Mall of Asia Arena during the concert. Photo from Ado’s staff on Instagram.

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.

Fans with light sticks cheer to the electrifying sound of Ado. Photo from Ado’s staff on Instagram.

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.

Boys Like Girls rock the stage at the Playback Music Festival. 

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.

2000s outfit trends make a statement at the Playback Music Festival.

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A sneak peek of the pre-event fan activities.

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.”

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A heartfelt moment between Secondhand Serenade and fans singing to “Fall for You.”

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Fans sing along to Click Five’s “Jenny.”

A couple, in heightened emotion, jams to the sound of Boys Like Girls.

Headliners Boys Like Girls closed the show with their performance of “2>1” left the arena buzzing with emotion.

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Boys Like Girls closes out the Playback Music Festival with a powerful performance of "2>1."

Second Serenade electrifies the stage as hyped fans jam along.

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.

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.