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[PHILIPPINES] Baekhyun’s ‘The BEST Day’ in Manila: A Night to Remember with BENCH

February 2 was no ordinary night for Filipino EXO-Ls. The Mall of Asia Arena turned into a sea of Eribong lights, buzzing with anticipation as Baekhyun took the stage for ‘The BEST Day’ —his much-awaited fan meeting as the global ambassador of BENCH. The event was a celebration of music, humor, and heartfelt moments, proving once again why Baekhyun continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

A Billboard Welcome Like No Other

Long before stepping onto the stage, Baekhyun was already making waves in Manila. A day before the event, he was seen marveling at his own towering BENCH billboards along the Pasig River, a coveted advertising spot that has featured some of the biggest stars. The sight of his own face looming large above the city left a lasting impression. “It just makes me feel like I became a very, very big person in the Philippines. That’s why I’m very, very happy,” he shared with a laugh during the event. The crowd roared in agreement—he wasn’t just a face on a billboard, he was a star deeply cherished by Filipino fans.

Photos from Baekhyun’s post on Instagram

Music, Laughter, and Pure Baekhyun Energy

Unlike his high-energy Lonsdaleite concert in 2024, the fan meeting focused on personal interactions, giving fans a closer look at Baekhyun’s playful side. Opening the show in a relaxed yet stylish blue jacket, he serenaded the audience with ‘Good Morning,’ setting the tone for an intimate evening. As always, Baekhyun’s wit and humor shone through. The highlight? When BENCH founder Ben Chan joined him on stage, the singer wasted no time hyping him up with an impromptu chant: “Ben Chan, Ben Chan, coming up, coming up!” The crowd roared with laughter, and Baekhyun took it further by teaching Chan a heart pose for their photo op. His interactions with fans were just as lively. When he mentioned wanting to try bulalo, hands shot up in the air, eager to claim the title of ‘Best Bulalo Cook.’ But Baekhyun wasn’t easily convinced. “A lot of people raised their hands, but we need confirmation,” he teased. The crowd played along, fueling the fun atmosphere.


Dancing with EXO-Ls

No Baekhyun event is complete without dance, and ‘The BEST Day’ delivered in unexpected ways. Fans were invited to join in on some of his viral dance challenges—from Igloo to EXO’s History, and, of course, Candy. Initially, Baekhyun feigned doubt in their dancing skills. “I have to see it myself,” he challenged. But after watching them give it their all, he admitted, “I felt tired,” joking about how his own energy was no match for their enthusiasm. Then came a heartwarming moment—Baekhyun noticed a fan in the crowd dressed in one of his iconic Lonsdaleite concert outfits. Clearly touched, he gave them a special shout-out, proving once again how much he values the dedication of his fans.


A Heartfelt Connection

Despite the lighthearted atmosphere, the evening had its emotional moments. A special fan-made video showcased touching messages, with fans sharing how Baekhyun’s music and presence had inspired them through difficult times. Touched, Baekhyun reflected, “The more time passes, we realize and feel that we should be together and we know the importance of each other.” As the night neared its end, he treated the audience to live performances of Pineapple Slice and Rendez-Vous, before closing with Garden in the Air. Watching the light stick-wielding crowd mirror his hand movements, Baekhyun couldn’t help but smile—this was a moment he would surely cherish.


See You Again, Manila!

Before leaving the stage, Baekhyun left fans with a hopeful promise. “I might come back to the Philippines for a concert this year. I’ll try to come back as fast as possible.” With that, ‘The BEST Day’ ended not just as a fan meeting, but as a shared experience between an artist and his fans. Until Baekhyun’s next visit, Filipino EXO-Ls will hold onto the memories of a night filled with music, laughter, and a whole lot of love.

The fan meeting is presented by Filipino lifestyle brand BENCH/, which also has Baekhyun as a #GlobalBENCHSetter. The Seoul Story would also like to thank BENCH/ for inviting us to this exclusive fan meeting!

Written by: Zee
Photos by: Shenny

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