Once again, the Philippines has proven that when it comes to energy, we are undefeated! Last weekend, the SM Mall of Asia Arena was practically shaking when ITZY brought their highly anticipated 3rd World Tour: TUNNEL VISION to Manila. It was a night packed with STUNNING WOMEN, high-octane choreography, mind-blowing production, and a level of crowd energy that left our favorite girls visibly stunned – and promising to return.
Photos from @jypentertainment / @jasperlucena
Here’s a breakdown of why ITZY’s Manila stop was one for the history books:
Next-Level Production
From the moment the lights dimmed, the production value of ITZY’s TUNNEL VISION tour was on full display. The giant LED screens flanking the stage flickered with retro, action-packed analog television VCRs, building up a cinematic suspense before Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryeong, and Yuna materialized onstage.
The stage design featured a massive extended stage catwalk, which ITZY utilized to its absolute limit, strutting down to get as close as possible to the screaming crowd.
Unreal Visuals
Of course, we need to talk about ITZY’s visuals! Accompanied by a brilliant troupe of backup dancers, dynamic lighting, and pristine sound, the girls looked absolutely breathtaking. Whether they were in sleek, coordinated group ensembles or their individual solo stage outfits (like Chaeryeong’s stunning, body-hugging, studded black outfit!!!), they served pure visual perfection. (Chaeryeong is obviously my bias.)
Photos from @jypentertainment / @jasperlucena
Chaeryeong’s Legendary Split
Since we’re already on the topic of my bias, while the entire ITZY concert setlist was a non-stop parade of hits, ranging from their new title track Tunnel Vision to older crowd favorites like Wannabe and Loco, the absolute peak highlight of my night happened during Wild Wild West.
During the performance, Chaeryeong completely sent the arena into a frenzy by dropping into a fun, effortless split right on beat. It was a moment of pure, raw star power that literally got me screaming and falling to the floor. What. Was. That. Seriously. The sheer athleticism and sass she brought to that specific moment proved exactly why she is regarded as one of K-pop’s premier main dancers.
PH MIDZY Barking for Ryujin
Filipino fans have a reputation for singing along to entire tracks, even in Korean, including the rap verses, but the crowd at MOA Arena took things to a whole new level by screaming as loudly as possible (my throat still hurts, tbh). In fact, the screaming started before the members even stepped onto the stage and never let up.
Photos from @jypentertainment / @jasperlucena
The absolute peak of Philippine crowd culture, however, happened when the arena quite literally started barking for Ryujin. I mean: look at her. can you blame us? The unexpected, deafening chorus of barks threw the members into a mix of surprise, laughter, and utter amazement.
Ryujin was so taken aback by the sheer volume and passion of the crowd that during the encore, she jokingly asked everyone to keep a little secret, “I think I can say you guys are top one when it comes to cheers. Keep it a secret between us!” Lia echoed the sentiment, sharing how touched she was to see the raw, visible emotion and love on every single fan’s face from the stage.
A Promise to Return
The overwhelming love from local MIDZY didn’t just leave a lasting impression. It secured a promise. Touched by the sea of lightsticks and the deafening, endless fan chants; the members made it clear that Manila holds an incredibly special place in their hearts.
Before saying their final goodbyes, they promised that they wouldn’t keep the Philippines waiting long. “We won’t take long and we will be back here,” they promised, ensuring that the bond between ITZY and PH MIDZY is stronger than ever.
Thank you so much, Live Nation PH, for bringing the girls back and for ensuring that everyone had the absolute best time!
