SB19’s “Simula at Wakas” Day 2: A Concert That Felt Like Coming Home
On June 1, 2025, SB19 returned to the Philippine Arena for the second night of their highly anticipated Simula at Wakas world tour kickoff. And if Day 1 was the spark, Day 2 was the fire—a powerful, emotional, and proudly Filipino performance that proved why SB19 continues to lead the P-pop revolution.
The show wasn’t just a repeat of the first night—it was a masterclass in artistry, a celebration of community, and a vivid reminder that SB19 isn’t just performing on the global stage—they’re owning it.
No Guests, No Filler—Just SB19 at Their Full Power
One of the boldest choices for the two-day event? No guest performers. While most acts would bring in others to diversify a set, SB19 took on the full 2.5-hour production alone—and absolutely delivered.
Opening with the theatrical and thunderous “DAM,” the group immediately set a cinematic tone. Cloaked in mystery and energy, the members peeled off their robes to reveal “DAM”-inspired costumes before launching into a medley of hits like “What?,” “Mana,” and the crowd-igniting “Gento.”
Each track was choreographed to perfection, but what stood out even more was their vocal stamina and emotional depth—traits not often sustained in arena-scale shows.
Setlist Highlights and Emotional Surprises
The Day 2 setlist mirrored parts of the first night but included distinct surprises. A new arrangement of “ILAW” was exclusive to this show, and it gave long-time fans a fresh take on a beloved track.
Ballads like “Mapa” and “Time” slowed the tempo but heightened the emotional atmosphere. During “Mapa,” personal family images were displayed, and member Josh Cullen’s heartfelt revelation—his estranged father was in the crowd watching him perform for the first time—brought tears to more than a few eyes.
Meanwhile, a seductive vocal shift in “Moonlight” and “I Want You” showcased SB19’s artistic versatility. Line switches during “Bazinga” revealed even more of the group’s range, with Justin and Stell taking on parts not typically theirs—much to the delight of fans.
A’TIN Turned the Arena Into a Love Letter
But it wasn’t just SB19 who brought the energy. The A’TIN fandom showed up in full force—literally transforming the arena into a living, breathing tribute to the group.
Fans coordinated light stick waves, organized transportation convoys, distributed fan-made merch, and even arranged a plane to fly over the venue with the message: “The world is yours, SB19.”
Inside the venue, synchronized LED wristbands lit up the space in waves of color. The entire arena became a visual extension of the music—proof that A’TIN isn’t just a fanbase. They’re co-creators of the experience.
Ending Where It Began
Fittingly, the show both opened and closed with “DAM,” reinforcing the “Simula at Wakas” (Beginning and End) theme. The reappearance of the symbolic DAM tree on stage and the final declaration, “2025. Made in the Philippines,” tied everything together.
It wasn’t just a concert finale. It was a powerful statement of identity, of pride, and of intent.
A Legacy in Motion
With the global leg of the tour set to hit major cities across North America, the Middle East, and Asia, Simula at Wakas isn’t just the end of a trilogy or the start of a new era—it’s a turning point for Filipino music on the world stage.
SB19 has made it clear: they’re not here to follow trends. They’re here to set them.
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| Photo licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. |
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