The Rose returns to Manila, turning longing into a long-awaited reunion as Filipino Black Roses celebrate the memories they share and look forward to brighter days together.
The Rose made the rainy Saturday feel like a warm embrace on August 15, 2026. It was a much-awaited gathering as the band brought their ROSETOPIA 2026 Tour to the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by L-Squared Production PH, the night left lasting memories of joy, comfort, and emotional safety.
From Woosung’s (Sammy) heartfelt vocals to Dojoon’s (Leo) gentle keyboard harmonies, every member played a distinct role in making the intimate night even more memorable. Hajoon’s (Dylan) explosive drumming and Taegyeom’s (Jeff) rhythmic bass completed the band’s signature live sound. Beneath the glaring spotlights, the arena resonated with music filled with authenticity and nostalgia.
The concert was more than just a night of entertainment. It was also an opportunity for the band to reconnect with Filipino fans and celebrate their shared journey over the past 10 years. It was also a perfect time to create more meaningful memories before their hiatus.
A night with The Rose feels like home
With the unmatched warmth and hospitality of Filipino fans, it’s no surprise that The Rose continues to make the Philippines a cherished stop on every tour. After two years, the indie-rock band once again graced the Manila stage following their last Dusk to Dawn tour in 2024, marking their fifth live performance in the country since their first Manila concert in 2019.
The night opened with a magical performance of their recent release, “Utopia,” welcoming the crowd as they stepped into paradise. Fans were swept up in mixed emotions as the band performed massive hits such as “Lifeline,” “Back to Me,” “Red,” “Sour,” and “Wonder.”
Dojoon deeply moved the Filipino crowd with his heartfelt effort to read a letter in Filipino. He expressed:
“Napakalaking biyaya para sa amin ang makagawa ng musika at maibahagi ito sa buong mundo. Maraming salamat sa inyong pagmamahal at suporta sa nakaraang siyam na taon. Dahil sa inyo, narito kami ngayon. Ako at kami ay napakasaya at proud na masabi namin na kami ang The Rose.”
Here’s Dojoon’s sweet message in Filipino last night 🥹 Such a cutiepie 🥀#TheRose #RosetopiaInManila #WeRoseYou #BlackRose #TheRoseManila pic.twitter.com/5cn0TnDG6K
— Projects For The Rose – Closing Soon 🌹 (@project4therose) August 16, 2026
Filipino Black Roses also had the chance to witness live performances of “Walking on Clouds,” “Threshold,” and “Control,” which will be part of their new album, ROSE, set to be released this month. The song “Blue Moon” left fans even more emotional as it explored a rare, once-in-a-lifetime connection—a tribute to their fans’ unwavering love.
Moreover, The Rose didn’t let the moment pass without drawing closer to fans through heartfelt conversations, affectionate gestures, and playful banter that made the night feel even more genuine.
The Rose Looks Back and Ahead During the Manila Press Conference
Hours before their ROSETOPIA 2026 concert, The Rose met with Philippine media to reflect on their decade-long journey, their special connection with Manila, and what comes next for the band.
The members shared that healing through music remains at the heart of The Rose, with Woosung saying they hope to continue creating songs that can accompany fans through their happiest and most difficult moments. They also looked back on career milestones, including their 2024 Coachella debut and other major international performances.
Manila, unsurprisingly, holds a special place in their hearts. Taegyeom recalled their appearance at CONQuest Festival 2023, while Woosung shared that having lived in the Philippines as a child makes returning to the country feel like coming home. The members also praised Filipino fans for their warmth, kindness, passion, and respect.
With their temporary hiatus approaching, the conversation naturally turned toward the future. Rather than viewing the break as an ending, the members see it as an opportunity to explore their individual interests, learn more about themselves, and eventually return to The Rose with new experiences to share. Specifically, Woosung teased how some members might release solo albums or venture into acting.
For a band that has spent nearly a decade constantly moving forward, the press conference offered a glimpse into why this pause matters, and why there is still so much to look forward to when The Rose eventually blooms together again.
Not a goodbye, just a moment to breathe
During the concert, emotions intensified when Woosung spoke about their impending hiatus. He shared during one of his ments:
“I think after these years, it’s time for us to take a small break from each other and learn and do other things that we each wanted to do.”
With the ROSETOPIA tour nearing its conclusion, The Rose will take a temporary break to focus on their personal goals and growth. Woosung teased fans about the members’ possible solo albums and future acting projects, hinting at what may await them during the band’s hiatus.
Although it will take some time before they take the stage together again, the band reassured their beloved Black Roses that they will come back stronger. This break is not an end, but a chance for them to breathe after 10 years of continuously providing comfort and healing to listeners through their music.
Before leaving the stage, each member tossed red roses into the crowd, a heartfelt gesture of gratitude for the fans who had shared the night with them.
The night ended with cheers, tears, and voices singing along to every last note. As red roses flew into the crowd, ROSETOPIA became a memory Filipino Black Roses could carry with them through the time apart. The wait for The Rose’s return may be uncertain, but the Manila show made one thing clear: the bond they built with their fans will continue to bloom, even offstage.
Pop Journal extends its gratitude to L-Squared Production PH for the media invite to cover this unforgettable night with The Rose.
Photos: Bea Ibañez
