There’s always something special about spending a day surrounded by people who love the same stories you do – from eye-catching costumes and buzzing art booths to exciting stage shows and the excitement of new collectibles. this year, Anime and Cosplay Expo 2026 It was a wonderful celebration of creativity, community, and everything that makes Filipino anime fans so much fun.
Throughout the event, participants explored the exhibits, with every corner filled with fans new and old. The podul (impulse buying) energy was strong! Meanwhile, there were many dressed up as their favorite anime characters; Some of the costumes were all in fun, while some were more humorous or simple than others. We also witnessed a GICOF contest, funny anime-themed games, and even a thrill experience with Nissin’s Yakisoba and Gong Cha’s milk tea. The community was undoubtedly eager to make the most of this anime and cosplay weekend. Here’s a look at some of the highlights.
There are some things people laugh about when they go to a convention: the fact that they didn’t sleep (due to excitement or last-minute preparations), didn’t eat (the struggle of losing track of time), walked for hours (fitness might be our passion), seeing friends wearing different cosplay costumes and admiring their transformations (it’s actually amazing), mustering up the courage to ask for a photo with a cosplayer (before the opportunity is lost forever), and of course our financial choices in the merchant and artist alleys. The fun part about this is that we get to celebrate and share these conference moments not just on our own, but with the community.
One of the best moments of ACX 2026 is watching the stage and audience transform into a lively spectacle. From the noise of the directors to the cheers of the audience, I found myself drawn into the activities of the theater more than ever before. This was actually the most enjoyable sitting I’ve had in a long time. The GICOF (Global International Cosplay Finals) Philippine Qualifying Competition was definitely a highlight, especially with everyone bringing their A-game. Then there were the singing and cosplay talent competitions, which were fun and exciting to watch as the contestants showcased each piece of their unique anime work.
It was also funny to watch the match on stage as the players had to identify song titles and singers. I can only imagine how excited and nervous I felt, but the excitement of getting the song right made the anime fan in me so happy. (Me too: I have a hard time visualizing my Spotify playlist like the way I try to visualize my notes during testing.) However, it’s always nice to see people dedicated and passionate about their craft, and it’s even nicer to see that it makes others feel joyful.
I really enjoyed how ACX 2026 raised the bar with its stage games and community interactions. Everyone was great! The thing I don’t appreciate, however, is the Family Feud game where they ask for the names of famous dogs in the cartoon. The best answer – and I hate this – was from Nina Tucker Full Metal Alchemist. (No!) Many of us gave a backlash, but overall it was a funny and painful moment shared. I can’t believe this also happened on the same day Demons of the shadow world I made this Easter egg from Nina Tucker.
Now in its tenth year, ACX 2026 continues to be our relaxed, cheerful and lively festival in the middle of the rainy season. I’ve said this before, but this event is truly one of the best, especially if you want to get that easy go lucky vibe or introduce the community to someone new without being overly stimulating. It’s the perfect laid-back event where creativity flourishes, friendship grows, and where fans can celebrate the stories and characters that have shaped them over the years. Every cosplay, fan art, show, performance, and shared laugh is a reminder that this community continues to thrive because of the passion, talent, and heart of the people who show up and make this community their own.
My weekend may have started gloomy and heavy-hearted due to the rainy season, but I returned home with a heart as full as sunshine. I’ve seen (and bought, thank you Anpanic) so many things that have brought me simple joys from the world of anime and Filipino society, that will undoubtedly keep me going with a hopeful heart.
The first half of the year may be over, but the second half is on its way! There is a lot to look forward to as the next event is finally the main eventCosplay obsessionAt the SMX Manila Convention Center. The full lineup for the international Japanese anime music concert, cosplayers, audio and VTuber guests have also been revealed. For more information, be sure to check out Cosplay Mania Facebook Page for more updates.
Of course, my article couldn’t end without a cosplay gallery! Head to the next page to see more from Anime and Cosplay Expo 2026’s cosplay gallery.