My first introduction to VOCALOID was a long time ago — I can’t remember exactly when, but I remember listening to Yellow. That kz(livetune) song s a core memory for me, so much that I joined a Pikarmy song cover to bade Pikamee Amano farewell (thanks Rentikoy)).

I also recall reading commentary on the first Miku Expo in Indonesia through Ahotaku (who, through his posts, introduced me to J-pop culture in Indonesia).

Then there’s Black Rock Shooter, which alongside Symphogear were both launched in 2012. What a year that was.

Fast forward to 2025, 11 years since Miku Expo was launched, Manila finally got its own Miku Expo. By the time the Manila concert date was set, I had already locked in to the Ado concert, so I resigned to not being able to watch it (as I cope playing VOCALOID charts on maimai) in person until MaDe invited me to watch with friends.

As expected, our Miku Expo concert felt more like a reunion than a concert, more of a convention than just a concert held inside SM Arena Mall of Asia. Hours before the concert, some fans are already dressed up, taking their breaks at the IKEA beside it.

Speaking of IKEA, I met some Quills during and after the concert, carrying with them memories of Hatsune Miku’s appearance during Ike Eveland’s 3D showcase. Besides that, I know several VTubers who grew up listening to VOCALOID were also present. I just felt that time has stopped and we were united to have fun with a core childhood memory.

  • Miku and the rest of the VOCALOID gang sang a mix of classic and recent VOCALOID hits (including M@GICAL☆CURE! LOVE SHOT!, The Vampire and Melt)
  • Rolling Girl, is indeed a surprise for the fans who chanted Mou ikkai! (one more), and putting it on the encore is excellent.
  • The seat where I was was so convenient for me that I was able to wotagei to some songs quickly.
  • If I got the chance to attend a Miku Expo again, I want to get as close to Miku as possible. Some might have noticed the smooth movements Miku (and Len, especially Len) have, and I won’t be surprised if they’re on 60fps high refresh motion rate.

I got photos from the event, and you can take a look at more on Facebook.