Anime and Cosplay Expo 2025 (ACX 2025) turned a rainy weekend into a vibrant celebration of fandom as thousands of fans gathered at SMX Convention Center Manila on July 19 and 20. Despite the weather, the event fully embraced its theme, Raindrop Reverie, delivering an immersive and memorable mid-year convention experience.
Since its debut in 2016, ACX has grown into a cornerstone of the local cosplay calendar. Now part of Cosplay.ph’s “Seasons of Cosplay” campaign celebrating 25 years of cosplay in the Philippines, the 2025 edition delivered a powerful mix of nostalgia, innovation, and community.
Event Highlights
Across the venue, fans explored a massive marketplace filled with collectibles, merchandise, and creative crafts. The Cosplay Auction once again made waves with bids starting as low as ₱1, allowing fans to take home exclusive finds.
New interactive formats debuted this year, including Cosplay Contender, a knockout-style competition; Shadow Play, a battle of wits and roleplay; Don’t Skip The Intro, a nostalgic quiz challenge; Cosplay Karaoke Encore, a crowd-favorite singing showcase; and Cosplay’s Got Talent, where winners earned the chance to perform at the upcoming JAM Concert during Cosplay Mania 2025.
The All-Star Avenue brought together many of the country’s top cosplayers, while fans enjoyed face-to-face moments with featured personalities throughout the weekend.
A major highlight was the first-ever Philippine appearance of Kanalyss, a highly anticipated international guest. Her stage segments, meet-and-greets, and autograph sessions became one of the weekend’s standout experiences.
Fan Feedback
ACX 2025 was widely praised for delivering a cohesive, themed experience despite the rainy conditions. Many attendees shared that the event offered a much-needed refuge, where they could enjoy fandom with fellow enthusiasts in a safe and welcoming space.
First-time attendees described it as an unforgettable introduction to the convention scene, while returning fans commended the balance of competitions, exhibits, and stage performances. The consistency of the Raindrop Reverie theme was especially appreciated for tying together the decor, programming, and promotions into a seamless experience.
Notable Sponsors and Partners
ACX 2025 was made possible through the support of numerous partners and sponsors whose contributions elevated the event experience. Among them were Brother Philippines, Yoshinoya Philippines, DGX, Suihanki Girls, 222, TeAr Aesthetic Haute, Brew ’n Purr × LynroeCreArt, OMO Collectibles, AniJK Arts, Shuffle Emporium, Kentaro Collectibles, Lottiepopz, HachiPaws Arts, District 1 Cosplay Studio, and Neutral Grounds Philippines. Their presence and participation helped enrich the convention atmosphere, from exhibit spaces to community segments.
Special thanks were also extended to the venue staff at SMX Convention Center Manila and the event marshals from Synergy for their dedication and professionalism throughout the weekend.
Looking Ahead
ACX 2025 was more than a convention, it was a celebration of culture, creativity, and community resilience. As fans look ahead to Cosplay Mania 2025 this October, the excitement and energy from ACX will surely carry forward.
Cosplay.ph continues to set the standard for anime and cosplay events in the country, and ACX 2025 was a testament to the passion and unity of the Philippine fandom community.
For upcoming announcements, tickets, and schedules, visit Cosplay.ph or follow Cosplay Mania on their official channels.
