MAKATI CITY — The fourth edition of SuperManila Comic Con officially concluded its expanded three-day run on September 6, 2026, bringing together thousands of fans, collectors, artists, and creators at One Ayala in Makati. For the first time since its launch, the convention stretched across three full days, giving attendees more opportunities to explore exhibits, shop for collectibles, meet renowned artists, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The event occupied two venues: The Concourse on Level 2 and SPACE on Level 5, turning the transit hub into a lively destination for comics, cosplay, collectibles, and pop culture. The successful expanded format further strengthened SuperManila Comic Con’s position as one of the country’s leading pop culture gatherings, combining international names with some of the Philippines’ most celebrated creative talents.
International Icons Meet Filipino Comic Book Talent
One of the convention’s biggest attractions was its impressive lineup of guest artists representing Marvel, DC, and independent publishing. Among the featured guests was Japanese artist Peach Momoko, recognized for her work on Marvel titles, alongside Singaporean illustrator Stanley “Artgerm” Lau, whose highly acclaimed variant covers have made him a favorite among comic book collectors. Marvel veteran Mike Zeck, known for his influential work on Secret Wars and The Punisher, also joined the celebration. The event likewise placed Filipino artists in the spotlight, featuring talents such as Carlo Pagulayan, Stephen Segovia, Miguel Mercado, and Harvey Tolibao. Fans eagerly waited in long lines for sketches, commissions, and autographs, creating memorable encounters between readers and the creators behind some of their favorite characters and stories.
Rare Filipino Komiks Releases Become Major Highlights
Collectors also had plenty to look forward to, particularly with the release of two notable Philippine komiks titles. The “Classic Darna #1” reprint brought back the work of legendary artist Nestor Redondo, with a cover by Stanley “Artgerm” Lau. It was offered in both full-color and sepia editions, giving collectors a chance to own a special reproduction of a beloved piece of Filipino komiks history. Another highly anticipated release was “Ang Kaluluwa ni Dante,” a faithful reproduction of Francisco V. Coching’s 1949 masterpiece, honoring the artist widely recognized as the “King of Komiks.” With only 300 copies produced, the release became a particularly sought-after collectible. Both exclusive titles quickly sold out, highlighting the continued interest in Philippine komiks and the enduring appeal of the country’s artistic heritage. Beyond the special releases, fans explored booths featuring major collectible brands such as LEGO, Hot Toys, Funko, Kotobukiya, Good Smile Company, and Gundam.
More Than Collectibles, a Celebration of Community
While comics and collectibles remained at the heart of the convention, SuperManila Comic Con 2026 also showcased the passion and creativity of the fandom itself. Cosplayers filled the venue in elaborate costumes, posing for photographs and joining spontaneous showcases. Meanwhile, the convention floor became a meeting place where fans exchanged stories, displayed collections, discovered new artists, and connected with people who shared their interests. For many attendees, the experience went beyond buying merchandise or meeting famous creators. It was an opportunity to be part of a community built around imagination, creativity, and a shared love for pop culture. With its successful three-day expansion, SuperManila Comic Con 2026 demonstrated the growing strength of the Philippine fandom scene. More than a convention, it has become a gathering where creators, collectors, cosplayers, and fans come together to celebrate the stories and creativity that bring them together.
