Jo Koy Takes Over Manila Arena Tonight

When the lights dim and the roar of the crowd fills the Mall of Asia Arena tonight, Filipino-American comic Jo Koy will be center stage for one of the year’s most anticipated comedy events. From his first Netflix special to selling out arenas worldwide, Koy’s journey has come full circle as he returns to the Philippines for a headline show billed “Manila•MOA Arena•TONIGHT.”

Tour Highlights

Kicking off earlier this year, the Just Being Koy World Tour 2025 has touched down across North America, Europe and Asia. On Instagram, Koy celebrated a Top 5 ranking among touring comedians: “#4 on @billboard Top 5 Most Successful Touring Comedians 2025 Thank you to all my fans. Love You!!” (Instagram.com/p/DKwtCvNy1_h/). He later announced new stops: “Just Being Koy Tour just added more cities! PROMO CODE is KOY” (Instagram.com/p/DKsQ55wSzt9/). Manila marks his latest and largest Asia date.

Filipino Roots

Born Joseph Glenn Herbert in Tacoma, Washington, Koy is the son of a U.S. Air Force veteran and a Filipina mother. His stand-up often weaves stories about family, culture and the immigrant experience. Wikipedia notes that he discovered comedy in the early ’90s while working as a salesman, and by 2011 he was headlining shows in Manila during his Drive-By Tour. Landing at MOA Arena is more than just another gig—it’s a homecoming for a performer who has long paid tribute to his heritage.

Bringing Laughter Back Home

Koy’s return has been eagerly awaited by Filipino fans. In past visits, he has sold out the Smart Araneta Coliseum and played intimate clubs in Makati, earning accolades for his high-energy delivery. Tonight’s arena show, produced in partnership with Live Nation, promises special bits inspired by local culture, plus the trademark crowd work that made his Netflix specials Comin’ In Hot and In His Elements instant hits.

Beyond stand-up, Koy has used his platform for philanthropy. Earlier this year he joined Tiffany Haddish at a charity prom for the She Ready Foundation, posting, “@tiffanyhaddish and I did our thing last night. @shereadyfoundation prom night was a success!” (Instagram.com/p/DJ0KdORS9Cd/). While tonight’s focus is laughs, fans can expect surprises and heartfelt moments.

Tickets for the Manila show sold out weeks ago, reflecting Koy’s skyrocketing appeal: Forbes listed him among the highest-earning comedians in 2024, and he routinely sells out five-figure venues. With production values on par with rock concerts—LED backdrops, tailored set lists and custom lighting—Just Being Koy delivers an experience far beyond a typical comedy club.

As fans settle into their seats and the opening act wraps, all eyes will be on the man who blended West Coast swagger with Pinoy flair to become one of the world’s top touring comics. “I can’t wait to see you tonight,” Koy posted alongside a shot of himself backstage at MOA Arena. Tonight, Manila will respond with laughter and applause that echo long after the final punchline.

Trivia

Jo Koy has made guest appearances on various television shows, including 'The Adam Carolla Show,' 'Chelsea Lately,' and 'The Masked Singer.'

Reporter

Reshmi Das

 

Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.

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