On April 18, SB19 successfully marked an end to their trilogy concert with a grand-scale Wakas at Simula finale show in the Philippines, proving yet again exactly why they hold the title of P-pop kings.
As the clock struck 7 p.m., the five-member P-pop group commanded the venue, drawing every eye to the stages and screens. The first line of their single “DAM” dropped to the sight of stunning fireworks piercing the sky, while bass-heavy beats shook the stadium. Pablo, Josh, Stell, Ken and Justin made a grand entrance on the center stage, decked in dazzling white outfits and flanked by hundreds of backup dancers who filled the main stage and surrounding areas.
The quintet set the stage ablaze with hard-hitting performances of their high-energy tracks “DAM,” “WHAT?” and “GENTO.” For the second segment, the members overflowed with charisma during “Everblack” and “8TonBall,” before executing a 180-degree shift. Their heavenly renditions of soulful songs like “ILAW,” “LIHAM” and “Time” showcased emotional vocals that tugged at the heartstrings of everyone in attendance.
(Photo credit: 1Z Entertainment)
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“We cherish our journey from debut until now,” Josh told the crowd. “Even though there have been many challenges and unexpected moments where we stumbled or felt like the group was nearing an end, you were always there.”
Justin added that despite the many obstacles thrown their way, opportunities continued to arise—notably their 2023 single “GENTO,” which went viral for its powerful choreography and influence across the global music industry.
Stell emphasized that throughout their numerous difficulties, one thing remained constant: A’TIN. “Wherever our time together takes us, I hope our journey has been a happy one. Let’s create even more memories together.”
Pablo, the group’s leader, thanked the fans, noting that no words could fully express the depth of their gratitude. He added, “Everything we do becomes a success because we are together. As long as we are with you, we can keep moving forward.”
Ken shared his hope that this specific moment would leave a lasting mark on the audience’s hearts.
(Photo credit: 1Z Entertainment)
Following these heartfelt messages, SB19 continued with a setlist including “Memories,” “Moonlight” and “I Want You.”
The concert didn’t just highlight SB19’s musical prowess; they also brought out the Japanese group BE:FIRST to perform their R&B collaboration “Toyfriend” live for the first time. Additionally, they welcomed their coach and choreographer, Jay, who debuted as a recording artist under the name J2X, and gave a spotlight to XONARA—the first girl group from 1Z Entertainment, the company established by the members themselves.
The night reached a fever pitch with their latest empowering single “VISA” and their collaboration with Taiwanese singer Jolin Tsai, “Emoji.” The setlist also featured fan favorites like “Bazinga,” “CRIMZONE,” “MAPA,” “SLMT” and “Freedom,” during which the members went down into the crowd to get closer to their fans.
(Photo credit: 1Z Entertainment)
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As the show drew to a close, the members took a moment to reflect. Justin noted, “We’ve come so far. It feels like it hasn’t been that long, yet the journey feels like a lifetime because of everything we’ve been through,” acknowledging the fleeting nature of the music industry and the milestone of staying together for eight years.
Ken admitted to his pre-show nerves, questioning if they were able to fill such a massive venue. Seeing the full house, he shared, “I thought you guys might have grown tired of us. When I was backstage, I kept asking the staff how many people were out there. This day is unbelievable; I will never forget it.”
Stell, brought to tears, confessed, “Growing up with SB19, I’ve tried to learn to control my emotions, but I can’t do that tonight. Every time we have a concert, I wonder, ‘Until when will we experience this?’ We have many fears, but knowing you are there makes us feel secure. We may not know when it will all end, but we know we’ve made enough memories to last.”
Josh added, “You serve as our guide whenever we lose our way. You make us persevere. I hope that no matter what happens, you won’t forget us.”
“It started with our dream,” Pablo concluded. “When passion, energy and hard work come together, something is built. We have built a bond that cannot be broken. The dream doesn’t end here. Together, we can lift the industry up as one.”
SB19 closed the nearly four-hour show with “Wakas,” “Go Up” and “Shooting for the Stars,” accompanied by a spectacular firework display. As a final surprise, fans prepared a drone show that elevated the evening to a new level.
(Photo credit: 1Z Entertainment)
The Wakas at Simula finale was a rollercoaster—a time-lapse of SB19’s journey since its debut that we felt deeply. From vulnerability to laughter, the show lived up to its name. Whether fans were in the front row or the farthest corners of the open-air venue at SMDC Festival Grounds, the group’s presence was undeniable. The night perfectly encapsulated the essence of the finale: looking back at the beginning, savoring the present and looking forward to the fresh start that awaits them.
For even more from SB19, come back in time with us to 2023 to read about their PAGTATAG! EP and more.
