FanFes 2025 kicked off last weekend with a summer-themed getaway that brought a splash of fun to Manila! This is the cozier version of the Cosplay Mania event series, following after Cosplay Carnival. Although small, the overflowing passion was just as felt since the event dedicates its focus on appreciating Filipino fandoms and artists.
As the event highlighting the community, it was perfect for celebrating anime, games, cosplay, and everything related to Japanese pop culture. What’s more, D4VD made a special appearance!
D4VD – Here in Manila
No one expected what a blast this was! The American singer-songwriter d4vd appeared on the FanFes stage. Following his special live show at the MOA Sky, d4vd performed “Feel It” and “Here With Me” for his Filipino fans. The venue was overflowing with everyone’s excitement and cheer. What made this extra special is the fact that he came in dressed up as Sasuke Uchiha from Naruto Shippuden. Cosplayer icon Myrtle Sarrosa, who cosplayed as female Naruto, also appeared on stage for a moment to jam along with him.
In the interview, he mentioned that anime has had some influence on his music. “The inspiration that I draw from these awesome characters is their willingness to fall and fail, they always get back up. And one of my favorite characters of all time is Goku, the symbol of hope from Dragon Ball Z. And one of my favorite songs that I made that was inspired by him, is ‘Take Me to the Sun.’ That was inspired by Goku.”
D4vd also shared how this was actually his first time at an anime and cosplay event. He said, “This is the greatest experience of my life. I see Gojo in the back! I see Killua over here, Raven from the Teen Titans! Is that Miku over there?” D4vd recognized a couple of Mark and Spider-Man cosplays as well, and added the expression, “We’re lit!” He closed his segment by saying how excited he was to share his new music soon, and that he would definitely return to the Philippines soon to perform at a bigger venue.
Celebrating Arts and Fandoms in the Summer
Every art and cosplay event is never the same; each one has its own highlights. With new games and anime every season, there’s always something to look forward to. This year, a large armored Titan overlooked the entire floor, courtesy of the PUBG x Attack on Titan collaboration. It was a fun location marker that all con-goers could see from all corners of the hall.
And then there were the exhibit displays of Mobile Legends, along with the many colorful shops and merchandise of the expo. Hubbyte with their figures and gacha, T-Tees with their shirts, and many more! Brother also returned with their trusty printers, showing creators and crafters how their latest technologies can help expand their creative journeys. Lastly, the food stalls stationed outside the event lobby were a nice and cozy area. The food, most notably Yoshinoya, provided much comfort.
Most of all, no one can deny that the artist alley was the happiest place to be. You see, from end to end, FanFest 2025 featured so many artists with amazing, unique, and eye-catching artworks.
From stickers to art prints, acrylic keychains, Tote bags, and paper fans — the event was brimming with fandom energy and creativity. Some merchants held pre-prepared stamp rallies, while others produced merchandise on the spot. Customers were also just as fired up as they went around on a mission to find their favorite fandoms. For example, the shoppers’ pass holders were especially fun to meet because they prepared for their shopping at FanFes 2025. Unfortunately, I was not able to take as many photos as I wanted to because I, too, was shopping my fangirl heart out. That’s how much fun we all had.
Now in its second year, FanFest 2025 has found its home at the One Ayala Mall in Makati City. The location has proved to be a very convenient and refreshing venue for everyone, especially since it’s in the center of Makati City and Metro Manila, right beside the train station. And as the summer heat goes on, you can’t help but appreciate the cool air-conditioned places all around the venue. Not only is it friendly and comfortable for everyone, but it’s also quite fun to see cosplayers and anime fans all around the mall.
The stage game particularly caught my attention because they had trivia questions that featured the artist’s booth and drawings. It was a wonderful way to promote art while engaging the audience with our favorite fandoms. And then there was the singing contest that featured many talented voices and iconic anime songs, which was very energizing.
FanFes 2025 – A Small But Cheerful Festival
That said, FanFes 2025 stands by its name — a festival of arts and fandoms, allowing everyone a place to enjoy and support each other’s crafts, hobbies, and favorite things this summer.
This fan festival was easily a fantastic showcase of creativity — from the artists at the FanFair, cosplayers at the Cosplay Catwalk and on the floors, the cheerful gamers at the Mobile Legends at PUBG booth, the simple con-goers, and many more. It’s always nice to see people who are dedicated and passionate about their craft, and it’s even nicer to see that it makes other people feel cheerful. The community definitely proves to be ever-supportive and inspiring.
Of course, my article can’t conclude without the cosplay gallery! Head to the next page to see more of our Cosplay Carnival 2025 cosplay gallery.
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