They say that meeting your idol can be a dream come true, and for me, that dream took the form of a 1-on-1 photo session with the talented actor Mackenyu at Ayala Malls Manila Bay. While the experience was ultimately memorable, it was not without its challenges, thanks to the mishaps orchestrated by Manipopcon, the event organizer.
I’ll share the ups and downs of my encounter with Mackenyu, highlighting the warmth he exuded despite the unfortunate incidents that transpired.
The Anticipation:
The excitement leading up to the event was palpable. As a fan of Mackenyu due to his work in One Piece, the prospect of a personal photo session was a thrilling opportunity. The event, organized by Manipopcon, promised an intimate and exclusive experience for attendees, and I eagerly anticipated the chance to meet the Japanese heartthrob. I was also delighted that it was a 1 on 1 photo because based on my experience with these events, this never happen at all unless the organizers themselves promoted such an opportunity.
The Mishaps:
Upon arriving at Ayala Malls Manila Bay, it became evident that the event wasn’t unfolding as smoothly as expected. Manipopcon, the organizer, seemed overwhelmed and ill-prepared, as even Maackenyu was late. Due to this delay, the crowd size gotten longer, leading to long lines, delays, and a general sense of chaos. As frustrations mounted among attendees, it became clear that the organizers were struggling to manage the situation.
Despite having paid for a premium experience, the promised efficiency of the 1-on-1 photo sessions was marred by disorganization. Many attendees, myself included, found ourselves waiting for extended periods, with little communication from the organizers about the delays.
The Saving Grace: Mackenyu’s Warmth
In the midst of the chaos, Mackenyu’s warmth and genuine demeanor shone through. Despite the challenges faced by both attendees and the organizers, he greeted each fan with a smile, making genuine connections during the brief encounters. Mackenyu’s ability to stay composed and affable in the face of adversity turned what could have been a disastrous experience into one that still held a silver lining.
The silver lining became even more apparent during the actual photo session. Mackenyu, understanding the frustrations of the attendees, took the time to ensure that each interaction was special. He welcomed and bid goodbye with warmth, posed for pictures with enthusiasm, and made every effort to create a positive and memorable experience for his fans.
While my 1-on-1 photo experience with Mackenyu at Ayala Malls Manila Bay was marred by the mishaps orchestrated by Manipopcon, the warmth and genuine nature of the actor himself salvaged the day. In the end, it was Mackenyu’s charisma and kindness that made the encounter unforgettable. As disappointing as the organizational hiccups were, the enduring memory remains one of connection and appreciation for an artist who truly cares about his fans. Here’s hoping that future events will learn from the missteps of Manipopcon, ensuring that fans can enjoy the full magic of meeting their idols without unnecessary hindrances.