The 17-day countdown to the highly anticipated SB19 Simula at Wakas World Tour Doha officially began on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, with a kickoff event at The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa.
The launch, attended by sponsors’ representatives, members of the media, and prominent Filipino social media influencers in Qatar, marked the start of the final stretch leading to the group’s October 17 performance at the Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC). The event was organized by Qabayan Radio, presented by Qatar Calendar, and powered by Papa John’s.
Rising Anticipation
SB19, the Philippines’ most celebrated pop group and trailblazer of the P-Pop movement, will bring their world tour to Doha for the first time. Known for their dynamic performances and chart-topping hits, the group has consistently sold out shows across Asia, North America and Europe. Their Qatar stop is expected to draw thousands of fans from the Filipino community and beyond.
Tickets have been selling fast since their release, organizers said, reflecting not only the group’s immense popularity but also the country’s growing appetite for global entertainment events.
Qabayan Radio’s Role
On the sidelines of the launch, Salim Kainikkara, Managing Director of Qabayan Radio, reaffirmed the station’s readiness to stage the concert. He said Qabayan Radio’s goal since organizing its first live shows has always been to bring world-class entertainment to the Filipino diaspora and other communities in Qatar.
“Our mission is to position Qatar as a true global hub for international acts,” he said.
According to John Martin, Event Manager of Qabayan Radio,
“SB19 is ‘not just a group, but hope in motion.’ As the first Pinoy pop act to showcase Filipino talent on the global stage, SB19 has become the sound of dreams rising, and now they are set to bring that same energy to Doha. The response from fans has been remarkable, with overwhelming demand on the first day of ticket sales causing the ticketing website to crash. VVIP and VIP tickets were sold out in less than 24 hours, a clear sign that for many, this event is more than just a concert – it is a movement.”
Cultural Milestone
The countdown kickoff, described as simple but meaningful, underscored the organizers’ confidence and preparedness for what is seen as a landmark event for Qatar’s Filipino community. It also highlighted the Qatar’s rising stature as a stage for international music, cultural and sporting events.
For many Filipinos in Qatar, who make up one of the largest expatriate communities in the country, the concert is more than a musical spectacle. It is also a celebration of cultural identity and pride, offering a rare chance to see their homegrown idols perform live on one of Qatar’s biggest stages.
With momentum building, organizers say the coming days will feature community-driven promotions and media activities designed to fuel excitement until show night.
Acknowledgments
Organizers expressed their appreciation to the event’s partners and sponsors, with the concert presented by Qatar Calendar and powered by Papa John’s. Other partners include Baladna as Refreshment Partner, Dairy Queen as Grill & Chill Partner, Mall of Qatar as Mall Partner, The Westin Doha Hotel & Spa as Hotel Partner, Ford as Transport Partner, and Al Safa Medical Polyclinic as Medical Partner. Ticketing support is provided by Q-Tickets and S City.
The organizers also extended their gratitude to members of the media and Filipino social media influencers in Qatar for their presence and support during the countdown launch.
Source and cover image: Press Release
