The scorching Manila sun was no match for the energy of Waterbomb Manila 2025, as fans flocked to the Quirino Grandstand for a full day of music, water fights, and electrifying performances. The first-ever Philippine leg of the famed Korean water festival did not disappoint, delivering high-energy sets, unexpected viral moments, and the ultimate mix of hip-hop, EDM, and K-pop.
B.I. Kicks Off the Party Under the Blazing Sun
Despite the 3:30 PM heat, the crowd erupted as B.I. took the stage, proving that nothing—not even the glaring sun—could stop fans from hyping up the former iKON member. His powerful performance set the tone for the rest of the festival, drenching fans in both sweat and water.
Dynamic Duo Brings the Reels to Life
When legendary Korean hip-hop duo Dynamic Duo hit the stage, we had a moment of realization: we know these songs! Like many K-pop fans, we had unknowingly been vibing to their tracks thanks to Instagram Reels featuring my favorite idols. Seeing them perform live? A surreal experience that added an extra layer of nostalgia and excitement.
STAYC Proves Their Stage Presence Is Next Level
If there was one group that oozed charm, it was STAYC. The girl group delivered a dynamic set, proving why they’re one of the most promising fourth-gen acts today. Their live vocals, synchronized choreography, and infectious energy made it impossible not to sing and dance along.
DJs Kept the Momentum Going—Especially RAIZEN!
Between performances, DJs like DJ Roots and RAIZEN kept the adrenaline pumping. But for an SM Entertainment stan like me, RAIZEN’s set was everything. When he played Kick It, Sticker, and Fact-Check back-to-back, our inner Czennie lost it. The seamless mix of K-pop hits and EDM drops was an absolute highlight of the day.
Baekho Sends the Crowd Into a Frenzy
It’s safe to say Baekho had everyone wrapped around his finger. The moment he stepped on stage, the entire crowd surged forward, braving the water jets just to get a closer look. His vocals, his charisma—everything about his performance had fans screaming in pure excitement.
Kwon Eunbi: The Undisputed Queen of Waterbomb
They don’t call her the Queen of Waterbomb for nothing. Kwon Eunbi once again proved why she reigns supreme at this festival. From her stunning visuals to her confident, sultry performance, she commanded the stage with an effortless mix of charm and power.
Epik High: Comedians and Hip-Hop Masters in One
If there’s one act that knew how to balance comedy and musical mastery, it was Epik High. From the moment they stepped on stage, it felt as if they were in the middle of a skit—playful banter, exaggerated entrances, and self-aware jokes that had the crowd in stitches. But the second the beats dropped, they seamlessly switched gears into their signature lyricism and raw energy. Their set was a rollercoaster of emotions, proving why they remain one of Korea’s most iconic hip-hop groups.
Hwasa’s Unmatched Stage Presence
If there’s one performer who knows how to captivate an audience, it’s Hwasa. The MAMAMOO member exuded pure confidence, captivating fans with every move. Her sultry vocals, magnetic presence, and undeniable swag made her set one of the most unforgettable moments of the night.
Chanyeol Closes the Night with Peak ‘Pogi’ Energy
The ultimate highlight of the evening? EXO’s Chanyeol. The moment he stepped on stage, fans erupted into chants of “Pogi! Pogi! Pogi!”—a classic Filipino compliment for someone incredibly good-looking. His response? A cheeky “I know!” that sent the entire venue into a meltdown. Chanyeol’s performance was electrifying, a perfect way to close out an insane first day at Waterbomb Manila.
PPop artists, Zela and Bilib started off Day 2
Rising PPop artists Bilib and Zela powered up the stage for Waterbomb Manila. The energy matches the crowd.
BLOCK B's U-KWON strut his moves
When U-KWON entered the stage and performed some of hits such as Wanna Do, and Block B's HER, everyone's dance their way in the crowd.
VIVIZ sizzled the stage with their beauty and dance moves
Bop bop to the stage as KPop girl group, VIVIZ consisted of Eunha, SinB, and Umji which captivated Filipino fans with their hits such as #FLASHBACK, and Maniac.
HAHA, Skull, REDDY, SULREGGAE and YANG SE CHAN makes the grooves
Seeing them in one stage: hilarious as they jived along the crowd. Mixed of reggae and KHiphop --- the best!
DJ performances getting better!
In between performances and Waterbomb time, KENET, 2Spade, Mar Vista, Siena Girls, Aster and Neo, and Insidecore gave their all with chillin' vibes mixes while everyone had a great time at Waterbomb Manila.
GRAY filled the mood of KHiphop fans
Rapper, songwriter, and producer GRAY matched the energy of KHiphop fans and make it hotter as the night started, as he sang some of the songs he produced and wrote such as Late Night, On Air, and Who You?
OH MY GIRL ignited the stage
Fans of OH MY GIRL went wild as they performed some of their songs such as "Dun Dun Dance,” “Dolphin,” “Bungee (Fall in Love),” and “Nonstop.” It's the group's first time in Manila. They deserve to be back soon!
KANG DANIEL always bring the best performance on stage
Kang Daniel proved that he is one of the well-loved KPop artist. His dancing and singing prowess stands out as he performed his songs such as Electric Shock, Supernova, and Ready to Ride.
HYOLYN knows how her Filipino fans enjoy the night
Fanboys and fangirls alike excited when the summer queen, Hyolyn stepped the stage. She sang some of her hits such as Dally, Shake, and Wait. Crowd reminsince when she performed SISTAR songs, Ma Boy, and Touch My Body.
Bambam never failed to mesmerize Filo Ahgase
Thai rapper, singer, and GOT7 member Bambam hyped up the crowd when he performed his hits such as Ball Like That, “Thank You Come Again, RiBBon, and GOT7's Hard Carry. We cannot function well when he sang Lola Amour's Raining in Manila. The diction, and how he delivered the song....we're still in awe!
SUNMI gave her all to Filipino fans
South Korean singer, dancer, songwriter SUNMI known for her days with the Wonder Girls enjoyed her set. Her interaction with her fans top notch! She performed Siren, Pporappippam, and Heart Burn. When the first few tunes for Gashina started, everyone in the crowd danced the night away.
JESSI's comeback in Manila was a blast!
The fierce queen, JESSI made sure that her comeback after 6 month --- worth it! She never fail Filo Jebbies with her powerful performance with her hits such as What Type of X, Gucci, Smoke, MiChinNom, Cold Blooded, Gum, Zoom, and NUNU NANA. Her interaction with the crowd ---- wild! A warmhearted, humorous queen for her Filipino fans.
Full set of photos from Waterbomb Manila Day 2 here
Final Thoughts: Waterbomb Manila 2025 Lived Up to the Hype!
From sun-soaked performances to water-soaked fans, Waterbomb Manila 2025 Day 1 was everything we hoped for and more. The mix of hip-hop, K-pop, and EDM created an unforgettable experience, proving that Manila knows how to party just as hard as Seoul.
With Day 2 promised and delivered another round of insane performances, we're ready to get drenched all over again next year!
Words by Marga Deona, and Christian Melanie Lee
Photos by Gerard del Mundo