The first-ever Pokeverse Expo, held from May 31 to June 2, 2024, was an incredible success, bringing joy and nostalgia to Pokémon fans around the world. This landmark event united fans of all ages with headliners like Veronica Taylor, the voice of Ash Ketchum, and Jason Paige, the original Pokémon theme song singer.
The expo offered a variety of activities, including exclusive panels, immersive exhibits, and themed attractions, creating an unforgettable celebration of the Pokémon universe. Fans and celebrities alike, including Tim Yap, Myrtle Sarrosa, and Robi Domingo, shared their cherished Pokémon memories, adding a special touch to the event.
Jason Paige, the original Pokemon singer couldn’t contain his excitement, calling Pokeverse “the best Pokémon-themed event I’ve ever done.” He was thrilled with the performance space and the enthusiastic audience, noting that everyone had a fantastic time. Paige highlighted the diverse Pokémon-themed activities, from food to games, cosplay, music, collectibles, and giveaways. He added, “I was super happy seeing the excited faces of the Filipino people. Pokeverse is setting up to be a great attraction for Pokémon fans in the Philippines and across Asia.”
Veronica Taylor, the original voice of Ash Ketchum in the Pokemon series expressed her heartfelt gratitude for being invited to the inaugural event in Manila. She shared, “Meeting so many wonderful people and hearing their amazing stories was extraordinary. Thank you to everyone who welcomed me and my daughter with such kindness. Mahal ko kayo!” A special highlight was Taylor’s meeting with DJ Kara, the Filipino voice of Ash Ketchum, which was a heartwarming reunion that delighted fans.
Influencer and voice actor David D’ Angelo found the event exhilarating. He emphasized how Pokeverse allowed fans to interact with iconic personalities like Taylor and Paige, stating, “The best thing about it was that fans like us were able to meet, talk, and even do voice acting together. We’re looking forward to Season 2!”
For Jhoenel Marquez, known as Tensai, the event was a trip down memory lane. “Pokeverse brought us back to our childhood. Hearing Ash Ketchum’s voice from Veronica Taylor gave us goosebumps. Singing the Pokémon theme song with Jason Paige was a dream come true.”
AllYellow Joshua, another influencer, reflected on the personal significance of the event, calling it “the happiest event I’ve ever attended.” He cherished the opportunity to relive his childhood and meet his heroes, Taylor and Paige. “This event will forever last in my heart, and I’m so ready for Season 2!” he said.
Devan Kyle Timbol, a TCG Asia caster, emphasized the importance of community support in making Pokeverse a blueprint for future events. He appreciated the TCG side events and the chance to meet and greet Taylor and Paige, noting, “Overall, it was an enjoyable experience.”
Daniel Bernas, a TikToker and FMA Champion, attended all three days primarily for the TCG tournament. He highlighted the joy of competing with fellow players and meeting iconic personalities. “I look forward to an improved experience in Season 2,” he shared.
James De Los Santos, a Pokémon collector and karate master, expressed his hopes for the future, saying, “It was the first time for Veronica Taylor and Jason Paige to visit the Philippines, and I’m really hoping there’ll be a Season 2.”
Derrence Lam, the largest Charizard collector in the Philippines, had a positive experience at the expo. “My first-ever Zarddaddy exhibit was memorable, and I’m definitely looking forward to Season 2,” he said.
Godfrey C. Murillo, the largest Pikachu collector in the Philippines, summarized his nostalgic experience, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration. “Meeting our childhood hero for the first time is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If we come together as one community, it can become the best Pokémon expo in the Philippines.”
Stephen Go, CEO of Hobby Stadium, was impressed by the turnout for the TCG tournament. “Initially expecting 60 players, we almost doubled it with 107 players. We are very much looking forward to a much improved and even better Season 2.”
Mommy Vanna, the proud Pokeverse Philippines host, congratulated the event’s success, noting how it brought together Pokémon fans from across the country. “It was an awesome experience to witness everyone’s joy over three days. Looking forward to a more exciting and more structured Season 2.”
Sol Lim, the Pokeverse Cosplay Contest Champion, expressed her joy and gratitude for the opportunity to meet her childhood heroes. “The best thing about the event was that I got to sing my heart out and be the Pokémon master I’ve always wanted to be.”
Pokeverse 2024 was an outstanding event that united fans, collectors, and iconic personalities, creating a vibrant and unforgettable celebration of the Pokémon world.
Some of the highlights for the Pokeverse expo can be found here.
This article is brought to you by Pokeverse Expo.