Ed Oblepias
Last weekend will be remembered as one of the most iconic events for the country’s otakus. BEST OF ANIME 2019 certainly lives up to its name as it makes the SMX Convention Center the hub for everything anime. With all of the wacky and fun things happening at the convention’s 10th anniversary, guests were guaranteed an exciting and memorable time walking around the festival’s show floor. Here is a rundown of everything we enjoyed and experienced at BOA 2019.
What is Best of Anime?
Best of Anime is a convention that first hit the Philippines’ “Otaku Scene” in 2009. The annual event quickly became known as an oasis for anime enthusiasts and fans. Each year the organizers always manage to raise the bar with their many events and contests, which is why otakus eagerly await the next convention.
Putting on a Great Show
The first thing that you will notice upon entering BOA’s convention floor is a huge stage. Yes, this stage takes up about a third of the event’s floor space. Looking at it will surely give you the impression that the organizers wanted the shows to be the highlight of BOA.
This year’s stage showcased the different aspects of the fandom such as cosplay, singing, Idols, and even fans just showing their enthusiasm for anime. The signing competition and battle of the bands really allowed the competitors to wow attendees. They belted and sang anime theme songs that tugged at everyone’s nostalgia and fandom. Your eyes will stay glued to the performers thanks to all the excitement happening.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Idols
With the popularity of Idol based anime like “Love-Live” and “idol Master”, it is no surprise that Filipino otakus are in love with the concept of idol concerts. With these anime becoming an entry point for many, the whole idea has been embraced wholeheartedly by the community.
Thanks to Best of Anime, fans of the genre need not travel far to experience an authentic J-Idol Concert. The stage was blessed with the performances of groups such as Starmarie, Yumeoi Syoujou, and Philippines’ very own Aidoru Sozai. While these groups certainly brought their a-game during their performances, no idol concert is complete without passionate fans. We’re proud to say that Filipino fans did not disappoint! They gave the concert a genuine atmosphere with their chants and unified waving of light sticks.
World Class Cosplay
No anime convention would be complete without cosplay! It was such a fun experience to walk around and take pictures during the whole event. Both the professional and amateur cosplayers who attended brought such amazing cosplay! It was truly a spectacle for the eyes.
BOA’s stage also held a cosplay competition. Some of the entries included Gipsy Danger (Pacific Rim), Sword Maiden (Goblin Slayer), and Hero Killer Stain (My Hero Academia).
Merch Madness
All anime fans love to own merchandise from their favorite anime. The convention was certainly an otaku’s wonderland with all the stores selling merchandise. Toys, posters, stickers, artwork, and just about every type of fan memorabilia could be found at BOA. Your wallet may have been full upon entering, but it will be considerably lighter once you exit.
All in all, Best of Anime 2019 was a blast! The 10th anniversary of this beloved convention did not disappoint thanks to its authentic j-idol concerts, amazing cosplay, passionate competitions between fans, and anime merch. It will carry on its legacy for being a haven for anime fans around the country and will still be the best of anime.
