RIIZE felt the RIIZING LOUD energy of Filipino Briize as they took over the SM Mall of Asia Arena for their first concert in Manila last Saturday, January 17.
Marking their official return to the Philippines, RIIZE transformed the SM Mall of Asia Arena into a night filled with powerful music, raw emotion, and unforgettable fan interactions with the RIIZING LOUD in Manila tour stop on January 17.
Hosted by CDM Entertainment, the event once again proved why Manila continues to be one of K-pop’s loudest and most passionate tour stops.
An Intense Opening
The arena exploded in applause the moment the lights dimmed. Opening with “Ember to Solar” and “Siren,” RIIZE set the stage for an excitement, nearly three-hour show. This was followed by the group’s powerful performance of “Combo,” which put their smooth choreography and dominating stage presence. These signature elements have rapidly defined RIIZE as one of the top acts of the 5th generation.
The cheer of the Filipino BRIIZE was so intense it startled the members themselves. Shotaro remarked that his microphone was practically “bouncing” from the sheer volume of the cheers. Meanwhile, Wonbin revealed they could hear the crowd shouting backstage long before the show even began.
An Epic Setlist
The setlist offered a perfect balance of high-octane energy and beautiful, melodic moments. Fans sang in perfect harmony to hits like “Memories,” “Love 119,” “Talk Saxy,” and “Impossible.” The energy much grew louder with crowd favorites “Bag Bad Back,” “Get A Guitar,” and “Boom Boom Bass.” They also performed their new released songs “Fame,” and “Sticky Like.”
One of the night’s most talked-about moments was RIIZE’s rendition of EXO’s “Monster.” This performance showcased a level of maturity, proving their ability to take a K-pop classic and make it entirely their own. Throughout the night, the group impressed with their steady live vocals despite their powerful choreography. Main vocalist Sohee said that Manila lived up to the tour’s name, describing the audience as RIIZING LOUD in every sense.
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RIIZE Heartfelt Fan Interactions
Beyond the performances, RIIZE took time to strengthen their bond with Filipino fans through playful and heartfelt moments. The members delighted the crowd with prepared pick up lines that had the entire arena laughing and cheering:
Sungchan: “Keyboard ka ba? Kasi type kita!”
Shotaro: “Alarm clock ka ba? Ginising mo kasi ang natutulog kong puso!”
Eunseok: “SIOMAI ka ba? Kasi I SIOMAI love you!” (Siomai = “show my”)
Wonbin: “UBE ka ba? Kasi I only want U‑BE!” — complete with a flying kiss
Sohee: “Math ka ba? Kasi sa’yo ang bagsak ko.”
Anton: “Water ka ba? Kasi my love for you is TUBIG! (too big!)”
The group also made sure to use Tagalog during their ment, delighting fans with phrases such as “Salamat po” and “Mag‑ingay!” Eunseok expressed how much they had anticipated this return, thanking Filipino BRIIZE for their constant warmth and enthusiasm. The group also made sure to acknowledge the fan-prepared banner that read: “Philippine BRIIZE will always be with RIIZE.”
A Joint Celebration
RIIZE returned for their encore, ending the emotional night with sincere bows, warm grins, and heartfelt promises to return very soon.
As the final song ended and the confetti settled, it became evident that RIIZING LOUD Manila was more than a tour stop. It was a joint celebration marking a deep and lasting connection between the group and their fans.
Did you enjoy the 2026 RIIZE “RIIZING LOUD” tour in Manila, and are you already hoping for their return?
Special thanks to CDM Entertainment for inviting Pop Journal to the 2026 RIIZE Concert Tour RIIZING LOUD in Manila.
Also Read: Kangin Delights in His Stunning Together Fanmeet Tour in Manila
Photos: Paula De La Cruz
