The pulse of the city is set by an ever-evolving entertainment scene. From internationally renowned concerts and local festivals to musicals and theater plays that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the country, Manila, Philippines has started to emerge as a key player in the global entertainment industry. But this surge in entertainment is not just about the music; it’s also reshaping the real estate landscape, creating new opportunities and shifting demand for properties.
Let us explore the intersection of entertainment and real estate in the region, providing insights into the latest concert and theatre shows, along with a guide to navigating the rising rental market in the metropolis areas. For real estate investors, industry pros, or digital nomads seeking new horizons, this guide unlocks city trends to your advantage.
Global Superstars Take Center Stage in the PH
The rich cultural landscape coupled with its strategic location and passionate music enthusiasts, has seen the rise of Manila as an international stop for music superstars. The city’s entertainment calendar is jam-packed with a variety of events, from week-long music festivals and one-night-only solo concerts to musicals and stage plays with entertainment rapidly becoming a tourist magnet, the demand for suitable accommodations has shot up, leading to a significant impact on the local real estate scene.
Music Festivals
Manila’s connection to its local artists and rich cultural heritage is evident in the numerous festivals that dot the annual calendar. These events, which bring together a variety of local and foreign talents, have also catalyzed a trend for out-of-town attendees seeking suitable short-term rental options, especially in the areas near these events including the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay and Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. Through this, real estate properties within proximity to festival venues have experienced a rise in demand, a seasonal fluctuation that investors and property managers have learned to anticipate and capitalize on.
Here’s a preview of what’s on the horizon for music festivals:
- Aurora Music Festival: Enjoy performances by SB19, December Avenue, Moira Dela Torre, and more over two days at Clark Global City – the mixed-use central business district of Pampanga.
- PREP: Asia Tour 2024: Performing at the Filinvest Tent in Alabang, Muntinlupa in May, alternative indie group PREP returns to Manila with hit tracks like “Cheapest Flight” and “Getaway”.
- KWAVE Music Festival – May 11: Burnham Green, Quirino Grandstand in Ermita Manila: Featuring THE BOYZ, fromis_9, and more. Part of the 2024 Badminton Asia Closing Ceremony.
- Snoh Aalegra Live In Manila: Experience Swedish-Iranian R&B singer Snoh Aalegra’s debut Manila concert on May 30 at The Filinvest Tent in Filinvest Alabang. Secure your tickets, priced from PHP 4,865, via Tickelo.
- XG: 1st WORLD TOUR – The first HOWL: Experience XG’s first world tour this May, the pop sensations behind “LEFT RIGHT”.
- EXO’s D.O. BLOOM Asia Fan Concert Tour: EXO’s D.O. (Doh Kyung Soo) coming to Manila as a soloist this August. Stay tuned for ticketing and venue details.
Concerts
Every year, Manila welcomes a roster of top-tier international artists that have thrilled the masses and drawn in tourists from across the globe. These mega-concerts often create a sudden spike in the demand for temporary accommodations, predominantly via platforms like Airbnb. Real estate in key districts in Metro Manila where international concerts are hosted has seen a substantial increase in rental rates, especially during peak concert seasons.
Here is a glimpse of upcoming concert events:
- KAIA: The 2nd Anniversary Fan Concert will occur at the Music Museum in San Juan City on April 6, 2024. Tickets are available starting from PHP 1,000 via TicketNet Online.
- BTOB Fan-Con: Scheduled for April 7, the 2024 BTOB Fan-Con “Our Dream In Manila” will be held at SM Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City. Tickets for this event start at PHP 5,750 and can be purchased through SM Tickets. BTOB is making a return to the Philippines for this fan con after a gap of 7 years.
- iKON is set to bring their “2024 iKON LIMITED TOUR – GET BACK” to the Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City on April 7. Tickets for the event start at PHP 3,800 and can be purchased via TicketNet Online. This concert marks iKON’s return to Manila before some members embark on military service.
- An Evening With James Taylor and His All-Star Band at SM Mall Of Asia Arena, Pasay City on April 8, 2024. Tickets start from PHP 2,650 via SM Tickets. Don’t miss James Taylor’s first Manila concert featuring his all-star band on the UMI: Talking To The Wind Tour.
- UMI: Talking To The Wind Tour takes place at 12 Monkeys Music Hall & Pub on Capitol Commons in Ortigas Center Pasig on April 11. Tickets are priced at PHP 3,800 via SM Tickets. UMI returns with fresh music from the latest EP for an unforgettable night.
- BAEKHYUN: LONSDALEITE 2024 ASIA TOUR at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Araneta City on April 13. Tickets start at PHP 3,000 via TicketNet Online. Catch EXO’s Baekhyun’s first solo concert in the country for a remarkable experience.
- WHEE IN: WHEE IN THE MOOD: Experience the electrifying performance of MAMAMOO member WHEE IN in her first solo world tour, “WHEE IN THE MOOD.” Catch her live at Skydome in North EDSA Quezon City, on April 13. Tickets start at PHP 5,500 and are available via SM Tickets.
- Regine Rocks: The Repeat: Get ready for an unforgettable night as Regine Velasquez-Alcasid brings back the magic of her famed rock concert. Witness her powerhouse performance at SM Mall Of Asia Arena, Pasay City, on April 19. Tickets start at PHP 840 and can be purchased via SM Tickets.
- Boys Like Girls: Spring Tour 2024 In Manila: Don’t miss the chance to see the American pop-rockers, Boys Like Girls, as they return to Manila for their “Spring Tour 2024.” Catch them at Smart Araneta Coliseum on April 20. Tickets start at PHP 2,500 and are available via TicketNet Online.
- Incubus Asia Tour 2024: Experience Incubus live at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on April 25. Don’t miss out on this return after six years. Secure your tickets starting at PHP 1,250 via TicketNet Online.
- Gary Valenciano: Pure Energy One Last Time: Join the celebration of Gary Valenciano’s 40th anniversary at the SM Mall Of Asia Arena in Pasay City on April 26 and 27. Tickets will be available soon, starting at PHP 750 via SM Tickets.
- Sobs and Subsonic Eye: Live In Manila 2024: Catch the live performances of Singaporean indie pop bands at the Eastside Events Place in Marikina City on April 26 and 27. Get your 1-Day Pass Tickets starting from PHP 800.
- Hev Abi: Morato Most Wanted – The Hev Abi Concert will take place at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City on April 28. Tickets are priced starting from PHP 848 and can be purchased via TicketNet Online. This event marks the Filipino rap hitmaker’s first major concert.
- RADWIMPS: The Way You Yawn, And The Outcry of Peace World Tour is scheduled at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on May 1. Tickets for this Japanese band’s first Manila performance will be available starting at PHP 2,650 via TicketNet Online on March 2.
- All-Time Low: All-Time Low Forever will be held at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City on May 3. Tickets for this pop-punk band’s 20th-anniversary celebration will be available starting on March 31, with sales handled by TicketPH.
- TREASURE: The 2024 Relay Tour Reboot is set to take place at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City on May 4. Ticket prices are yet to be announced for this K-pop group’s return following a successful previous tour.
- Converge: Southeast Asia 2024 will be hosted at the Eastside Events Place in Marikina City on May 10. Tickets for the American hardcore punk band’s first Manila show will start at PHP 1,800 for online purchases.
- The Show: Niall Horan Live On Tour will grace the SM Mall Of Asia Arena in Pasay City on May 13. Tickets for Niall Horan’s Manila tour stop will start from PHP 1,500 and can be purchased via SM Tickets.
- Arch Enemy: Deceivers Asia Tour will rock the stage at Skydome, SM City North EDSA on May 15. Tickets are available starting from PHP 3,500 via Pulp Tickets and SM Tickets for this Swedish melodic death metal band’s Manila show.
- SB19 will present Pagtatag! Finale at Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City on May 18 and 19. Ticket details are yet to be announced for this P-pop group’s closing of their world tour in Manila.
- Elijah Woods will charm fans at The Podium Hall, Ortigas Center on May 20, with tickets starting from PHP 2,650 via SM Tickets for this pop sensation’s Manila tour stop.
- Nick Carter’s Who I Am Tour will hit New Frontier Theater on May 23, and Waterfront Hotel Ballroom in Cebu on May 24. Tickets are on sale for Manila from 3,200 via TicketNet Online and for Cebu from PHP 2,100 via SM Tickets for this Backstreet Boys member’s solo tour stop.
- Laufey’s A Night At The Symphony awaits at PICC Plenary Hall, Pasay City. The date for this event is currently unavailable.
Musical and Theater Plays
Diving into the world of musicals and theater plays, experience a delightful showcase of talent, creativity, and storytelling that captivates audiences of all ages. The vibrant theater scene in the metro is filled with awe-inspiring performances that bring magic to the stage.
Here’s a round-up of what’s happening on stage:
- Don’t miss the return of the iconic musical “Miss Saigon” after 25 years, featuring a talented cast and promising an unforgettable experience. Catch it from March 23 to May 5 at The Theatre at Solaire. Ticket prices range from ₱2,116 to ₱8,464.
- One More Chance The Musical brings the popular Filipino film to the stage, offering a modern interpretation of Popoy and Basha’s love story. Featuring Ben&Ben’s music, the production delves into relationships and the power of love. Running from April 12 to June 16 at PETA Theater Center, Quezon City. Tickets from ₱1,500 to ₱3,000.
- “Rent” in Manila: A captivating production with a powerful narrative and musical score. Explores love, friendship, and resilience amidst the AIDS epidemic. Featuring a talented cast including Anthony Rosaldo and Molly Langley. Don’t miss this theatrical experience at Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, Makati City from April 20 to May 24. Tickets: ₱2,000 to ₱4,000.
- Don’t miss the exciting musical “Buruguduystunstugudunstuy” inspired by the iconic OPM band Parokya ni Edgar. Featuring an all-female cast, this production promises a captivating blend of music and nostalgia. Written by Rody Vera and with music by Ejay Yatco, it’s a journey of self-discovery. Catch it at Newport World Resorts, Pasay City, from April 26 to May 5. Ticket prices range from ₱1,105 to ₱5,525.
- “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” shines on stage, a humorous take on love and relationships. With a talented cast and witty script, this Repertory Philippines production promises to entertain audiences with romantic tales from June 7-30, at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium in RCBC Plaza in Ayala Avenue, Makati City. Ticket prices start at ₱3,710.
The Investing Advantage
For real estate investors, the surges in demand for accommodation during entertainment-packed weekends can spell significant rental income opportunities. Keeping an eye on the latest concert and festival line-ups and aligning property listings with these events can lead to increased visibility and booking rates for rental units. Investors looking to purchase new properties can also use the upcoming entertainment schedule as a guide for the best areas to buy, to optimize their rental potential.
Guide to Renting: Navigating the Residential Market Amidst the Entertainment Boom
For those looking to make the most out of Manila’s entertainment boom, understanding the nuances of the residential rental market is paramount.
1. Seasonal and Event-Based Pricing
The key to successful rental management lies in understanding and adapting to seasonal trends, particularly those tied to the entertainment industry. When planning to list a property, it’s essential to align pricing with the expected surge in demand during concerts and festivals. Prices can be set at a premium during these times, with the potential for maximum occupancy.
2. Attracting the Entertainment Crowd
Beyond pricing, creating rental listings that cater to the needs and preferences of concert and festival-goers is crucial. Highlighting properties that offer proximity to event venues, ease of transportation, and an inviting space to relax after the show can significantly improve the property’s desirability. Additional amenities such as high-speed internet, flexible check-in/out times, and local event guides can further enhance the experience for guests.
3. Leveraging Digital Marketing
In a competitive market, effective digital marketing can be the differentiator that attracts a higher number of guests. Utilizing social media, online marketplaces, and search engine optimization can improve the visibility of rental listings. Content that focuses on the entertainment experience, such as testimonies from past guests who attended events, can also increase the appeal of a property.
4. Staying Ahead of the Curve
Understanding the link between entertainment and real estate sectors in Metro Manila is key to capitalizing on this trend. Keeping up with concert and festival updates, tracking rental and real estate trends, and adjusting marketing/pricing strategies will help investors and property owners stay ahead.
Entertainment Delights: A Melodic Journey Ahead in Manila
Recent music festivals to solo concerts in Manila showcased a diverse range of music genres – from Ed Sheeran’s mesmerizing performance to Rivermaya’s nostalgic reunion. Artists like Jeff Satur, Youngjae, and the Jonas Brothers also left their mark, while local festivals like Bobapalooza offered unforgettable experiences. These events highlight Manila’s vibrant live entertainment scene, promising more excitement for music enthusiasts ahead.
These events, among others, have reaffirmed the Philippines’ position as a vibrant hub for live entertainment, promising more excitement and unforgettable experiences for music enthusiasts in the months to come.
