After seven years away, Korean pop superstars EXO stepped onto the Philippine stage once more, reclaiming a space that Filipino fans had kept ready all along.
Held at the SM MOA Arena, the two-day show over the weekend was part of the group’s ongoing EXO PLANET #6 – EXhOrizon world tour.
Roots and hits on display
The five-member lineup – composed of Suho, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, and Sehun – showcased their extensive catalogue and rekindled a special bond with their Filipino EXO-Ls, also known as PHIXOS.
EXO opened the concert with “MAMA,” the track that introduced them to the world, then moved through hit songs that defined each era of their career, including “Monster,” “Overdose,” and “Growl.”
In remarks to the crowd, the members expressed gratitude for the unwavering love and support they have received throughout the years.
“I know how much of you guys missed us, and I can say that we really miss you more than you did. Do you know EXO’s motto? We are one. If you enjoy this concert until the end, I’m sure that when the show is over, we will be one. Really one,” EXO’s leader Suho said.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time, and finally, EXO’s here. Enjoy the show tonight. Love you, Manila!”
Standout moments
Among the things that stood out during the concert was how the group’s sound translates live.
Their setlist spanned pop, rock, hip-hop, and ballads, showcasing a range of vocals that can shift from intense power to gentle warmth without missing a beat.
Dance sequences, ranging from dramatic large-scale formations to more fluid, expressive segments, were also well-executed.
Kai, widely recognised as the group’s main dancer, led many of the more technically demanding parts while Chanyeol, D.O., Sehun, and Suho brought their own unique strengths to the floor.
Visual highlights added another layer, most notably a striking moment wherein the members danced in tailored suits beside a suspended, human-shaped prop.
Overall, their performances proved why they remain K-pop’s gold standard.
Atmosphere of unity, connection and pure joy
The atmosphere inside was also unforgettable, with every line sung from the stage was matched by thousands of voices from the floor and the stands.
Lightsticks turned the hall into a mesmerising ocean of blue, and chants rose and fell in perfect timing.
“We have a lot of memories together,” Suho said.
“But seriously, Manila, the energy here, the vibe is just amazing,” D.O. remarked.
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Bond that outlasts times and challenges
As the night wrapped, the loudest cheer came not after a song but when the members spoke of gratitude and the promise of another return to the country.
For Filipino fans, seven years felt like a long and painful wait.
It was made even harder by contract disputes between members Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin and the group’s agency SM Entertainment.
These challenges ultimately resulted in only six members, including China-based Lay, participating in EXO’s most recent comeback.
Yet in the end, every moment of waiting was completely worth the wait, with years of support through albums, projects, and distance led to this moment, and the group acknowledged it fully.
Manila: A special home for EXO
For EXO, the Manila stop was far more than just adding another city to their tour itinerary.
The Philippine stage has always held a special place in their journey, known for some of the loudest, most loyal crowds anywhere in Asia.
“Today was just really perfect,” Kai said.
“We sang together with you, we danced together, we were able to see one-on-one together and to jump. I could feel your happiness as well. And I think you also felt how happy I was, right? Every single moment I spend with EXO-L is very precious to me,” he added.
Meanwhile, Suho assured fans that, “As long as you love EXO, we’ll be back for sure.”
EXO closed the evening with a heartfelt encore performance, treating the crowd to “Paradise” and “Flatline.”
The memorable final segment left Filipino fans reminded once more why the group’s music continues to strike a chord and remain beloved through the years.
Wendellyn Mateo 
Carmela Calling 
Mary Mae Balasanos