My favorite annual pop culture event is almost here! TOYCON Philippines is back and they’re leveling up their activities in celebration of their momentous 20th year. Happening this weekend from July 7-9, the second floor of SMX Convention Center in Pasay City is set to become a haven for toy aficionados, cosplayers, and fans of all things geek. I can’t even keep up with all the activities, so I’m listing everything that you should expect during your visit:

1. A Journey Through Pop Culture

Celebrating two decades of play, TOYCON has become a cultural phenomenon and a must-attend event for enthusiasts. Expect a weekend filled with nostalgia, thrilling finds, and engaging activities as you’ll be seeing a mix of both the OG shows and the new gen series merch!

To serve as guide, TOYCON PH organizers shared a detailed map which you can use to find your favorite stores and exhibitors.

2. Exclusive Toy Releases

Ready your wallets because almost a hundred toy exclusives from partner exhibitors will be there! Renowned brands like Funko, Lego, Bandai, Hot Toys, Pop Mart, and JoyToy will be showcasing their top-notch collectibles. Moreover, esteemed toy designers from the Philippines, the region, and the US, such as Quiccs, Wetworks, and Creon Chknhead, will be unveiling their limited-edition releases, adding to the excitement of the event.

Each booth will have their own mechanics for exclusive toy releases, but for the Freddy Funko as Champ (from Jollibee) will be available at the Funko Funatic Philippines booth in front of Function Room 5. More details in the video below:

3. FanXperience with MINDstyle

TOYCON has partnered with international brand and licensing giant MINDstyle to bring the FanXperience to the country. Immerse yourself in upcoming art toys, explore the latest trends, and snag some exclusive Pop Asia collectibles! You can also get the chance to interact with top creators and designers like Punk Drunkers and Reen Barrera, while also discovering Secret Fresh merchandise and exhibits. Don’t miss the highly anticipated TOYCON exclusive Funko Pop collectible: TC-02, the official TOYCON brand mascot.

4. Globe Playboxx Booth

Globe, this year’s co-presenter, invites you to unleash your inner child at the Globe Playboxx Booth. Embrace the nostalgia and enjoy fantastic toy exclusives, merchandise, and vouchers with the Globe Premium and VIP Passes. Be among the first to own sought-after toy exclusives, including Creon Chknheads CCW Buck Philippine Colorway and Punk Drunkers convention-exclusive Pops.

5. Voltes V Legacy and Special Guests

The ongoing live-action adaptation of the iconic Robot Romance Trilogy anime, Voltes V Legacy, will be a highlight of the event. Experience the cutting-edge special effects and attention to detail that have captivated fans. Meet the cast of Voltes V Legacy, including show-runner Director Mark A. Reyes, and engage in fan interactions on the TOYCON stage. GMA TV will also bring other stars to grace the event.

6. Special Guests from the Tokusatsu Universe

Prepare to meet Tetsuo Kurata (Robert Akizuki), known for his role as Masked Rider Black and Black RX, alongside Ryosuke Kaizu, who portrayed Red Mask in Hikari Sentai Maskman. These legendary figures from the Japanese Tokusatsu universe will be present at the Toku Spirits booth, showcasing their iconic props and vehicles.

7. Cosplay Extravaganza

Cosplay enthusiasts, get ready for the most entertaining and talked-about cosplay competition in the country! The Cosplay KO will take place on Saturday, offering a chance to win a cash prize of P20,000 for the best anime cosplay. On Sunday, the Anime S Cosplay World Stars local qualifiers and the Cosplay Pop Duo Contest will also be making a quick appearance! Celebrity cosplay photographer Jay Tablante will even be conducting a cosplay photography workshop sponsored by Canon.

8. Immersive Cinematic Display

Movie buffs, get ready to be immersed in the world of cinema! Warner Brothers will set up displays for “Barbie the Movie” and the highly anticipated DC superhero movie, “Blue Beetle.” Paramount Pictures will also join the fray with a booth dedicated to “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.” Immerse yourself in these cinematic universes and get a glimpse of the excitement these films have in store.

9. Creative Zones for Comics and Toy Designers

TOYCON recognizes and showcases the talent of both local and international creators. Explore the Comics Zone, powered by Komiket, featuring top comic book artists and illustrators who will bring your favorite characters to life. Additionally, there will be two Toy Designer Alleys, showcasing the best local and international toy designers such as Hot Actor, Pucky, Chino Lam, and Unbox Industries. Discover more than 80 toy exclusives from over 40 toy designers around the world!

10. TOYCON Collectors Gallery

The heart of TOYCON lies in the Collectors Gallery, where around 80 toy collector groups will proudly display their prized collections. Prepare to be amazed by the variety and intricacy of their exhibits. Engage in panel discussions, witness custom toy competitions, marvel at toy photography displays, and cheer for the winners of the Best Display and Awards for the Best Toy Collectors Group, sponsored by the Philippine Toy Groups Association. This is a paradise for collectors and a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts.

11. The Ultimate Shopping Experience

Are you ready to embark on the ultimate treasure hunt? With over 250 vendor booths, TOYCON offers an unparalleled shopping experience. Explore a vast selection of toys, comics, and collectibles that cater to every fandom imaginable. From rare finds to beloved classics, you’ll discover an abundance of items that will make any collector’s heart skip a beat.

Get ready for an epic weekend of pop-culture celebration at the 20th TOYCON Philippines and MINDstyle FanXperience! Immerse yourself in the world of exclusive toy releases, interact with renowned creators and designers, witness captivating cosplay competitions, indulge in immersive cinematic displays, and explore creative zones dedicated to comics and toy designers.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of this fun event. Grab your tickets now and join us at the SMX Convention Center from July 7th to 9th. TOYCON’s 20th year celebration promises an unforgettable experience that every pop-culture enthusiast and collector should not miss! See you there!

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