Otaku Pop Fes Press Conference at Okada Manila Signals a New Era for Japanese Pop Culture Events in the Philippines

The press conference of Otaku Pop Fes was held at the Glass Ballroom in the Coral Wing of Okada Manila, setting the tone for what promises to be one of the most ambitious Japanese pop culture events ever staged in the Philippines. Around lunchtime, the venue quickly filled with members of the anime, cosplay, and gaming communities, including KOLs, influencers, cosplayers, media representatives, and industry partners.

The program opened with a mini onstage photoshoot featuring the event’s key figures, followed by a warm welcome from host Fatima. She officially kicked off the event by inviting Mr. Osaki Akinori (Osaki-san) to the stage. Osaki-san represents Cyber E, a Japan based production company known for organizing large scale esports and pop culture events, and the company responsible for bringing Otaku Pop Fes to the Philippines together with CBZN.

During his speech, Osaki-san shared the motivations behind choosing the Philippines as the host country. He highlighted the nation’s young and passionate market, particularly its deep appreciation for Japanese culture. The timing of the event also carries cultural significance, coinciding with the 70th year of diplomatic friendship between Japan and the Philippines. He emphasized Okada Manila as the official venue partner and revealed that official Japanese anime companies will be showcasing their titles, a rare opportunity for fans in the region. With Japanese and Korean musicians, cosplay showcases, and fan driven activities, he concluded by inviting everyone to attend the festival on April 25 and 26.

The program then moved forward with CBZN Chief Operating Officer Ayee Calma, who presented what fans can expect from Otaku Pop Fes. The event is divided into four major pillars: Anime, Games, Cosplay, and Music.

Two major areas of Okada Manila will be utilized.
The Dome will host the music festival, maid parade, fan meet sessions, and cosplay activities, while the Ballroom will serve as the anime exhibition and merchandise area, featuring licensed displays and official goods.

One of the strongest highlights of the press conference was the confirmation of licensed anime exhibits. Titles such as Dan Da Dan, Naruto, Tougen Anki, Tokyo Revengers, and Witch Watch will be showcased directly by their respective intellectual property holders, solidifying Otaku Pop Fes as a fully official and authorized event.

For gaming fans, featured titles include Umamusume Pretty Derby and Shadowverse: Worlds Beyond, both well-known franchises within the Japanese gaming scene.

Cosplay will also play a central role, with a cosplay competition confirmed and full mechanics to be announced soon. Cosplay celebrity guests are expected to attend, adding further excitement for both participants and spectators.

On the music side, the lineup drew strong reactions from the audience. Confirmed performers include Eir Aoi, known for IGNITE, the opening theme of Sword Art Online, and Hiroshi Kitadani, the legendary voice behind We Are!, the iconic opening theme of One Piece.

Also joining the lineup is UNIS, a South Korean girl group formed through the survival show Universe Ticket and managed by F&F Entertainment. The group, composed of Hyeonju, Nana, Gehlee, Kotoko, Yunha, Elisia, Yoona, and Seowon, debuted in March 2024 and shared a special message for fans planning to attend the event.

It was also announced that a special early bird ticket sale will go live on the official Otaku Pop Fes website starting January 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM, offering significant discounts for early supporters.

Next to take the stage was Mr. Kenji Sugiyama, Managing Director for Corporate Management and Administration of Okada Manila. He explained why Okada Manila is the perfect venue for Otaku Pop Fes, expressing pride in hosting an event that celebrates Japanese pop culture in the Philippines. He introduced the philosophy of Omotenashi, a Japanese concept centered on heartfelt hospitality and mindfulness. According to Sugiyama, Okada Manila is a place that welcomes freedom of self-expression, fosters cultural exchange, and creates unforgettable memories.

The press conference concluded with Myrtle Sarrosa, who appeared on stage in her Yor Forger cosplay as the ambassador of Philippine otaku culture. She shared her journey from being a simple fan to becoming a cosplayer, actress, and gamer. Myrtle expressed her excitement for an event that allows Filipinos to experience a one of a kind otaku and pop culture celebration, emphasizing that there is no better place to hold it than Okada Manila, where exciting moments happen. She also thanked CBZN for their genuine care for the community and ended her appearance by calling for a loud “HAIIII” from those planning to attend in April.

The atmosphere was further energized by the presence of popular Filipino cosplayers such as Prince and Awie de Guzman, Zackt and Roxanne Kho, Een Mercado, and Charess, alongside gaming creators and streamers including John Wick, KazumigamingJP and NikkiNikki.

As Otaku Pop Fes approaches, the press conference made it clear that this is more than just a convention. It represents a growing cultural bridge between Japan and the Philippines, driven by shared passions for anime, music, games, and creative self-expression. With official partners, licensed content, and strong community support, Otaku Pop Fes stands as a meaningful celebration of pop culture, proving that when communities come together, experiences become memories that last well beyond the event itself.

For more information about the event and ticket purchases, visit https://www.otakupopfes.com/