Star Wars Day Cebu 2025 lit up Ayala Malls Central Bloc last May 4, turning the entire activity center into a celebration of the galaxy far, far away. 

Organized by Cebu Sabersturm Academy, the event didn’t just mark another year of global Star Wars fandom—it was also the group’s 8th anniversary, making the day feel twice as special for the local community.

With a total of 10 matches lined up, the stage was divided into three high-energy segments of lightsaber exhibition matches: undercards, midcards, and majorcards. Each duel brought something new to the floor. There were newbies stepping up for their first ever matches with a public audience, and it was thrilling to see them take the spotlight and earn the cheers of a supportive crowd. The atmosphere built with every match, and the energy in the activity center spiked each time the lights dimmed and sabers were ignited.

In between match segments, the King of the Hill tournament and the Lightsaber Flow Competition kept the audience locked in. King of the Hill saw fighters go head-to-head in fast-paced, back-to-back duels, while the flow competition shifted the mood, highlighting grace, precision, and the artistry behind saber forms. Every performance pulled in a crowd, many of whom weren’t expecting to be so drawn into the action, but found themselves glued to the edge of the stage.

But lightsaber duels weren’t the only thing happening. All around the venue, costumed fans walked the floor, taking pictures, mingling with guests, and bringing characters from across the Star Wars universe to life. 

The toy and art exhibits were a treat for collectors and casual fans alike. Rows of detailed figures, model ships, and rare collectibles were on display alongside creative, local Star Wars-inspired artwork. It was a space where the love for the franchise was seen, not just felt. Meanwhile, Neutral Grounds Philippines hosted a Star Wars Trading Card Game demo table, letting curious attendees learn the ropes of the game or test their strategic skills. Next to them, RecCon ran a Star Wars tabletop RPG, giving players a chance to live out adventures as smugglers, rebels, and bounty hunters in a dice-driven galaxy.

The Artist Alley was packed with talented creators offering prints, stickers, and original fan art—all inspired by their own Star Wars experiences. Fans could buy art directly from artists and talk with them about their inspirations. And for those who wanted to make their fandom permanent, there was even a live Star Wars tattoo session happening at the venue. Watching someone get inked with a lightsaber or a character symbol was just another sign of how deep this fandom runs.

By the end of the day, it wasn’t just about the duels, or the art, or the games—it was about the fans. The people who show up, support, and keep this passion alive year after year. Cebu Sabersturm Academy, as they closed the event, gave their heartfelt thanks to everyone who’s been part of the journey so far. Eight years of lightsaber training, events, and community wouldn’t have been possible without everyone who cheered, fought, cosplayed, shared, or simply came to watch.

To everyone who celebrated Star Wars Day Cebu 2025—thank you for keeping the Force strong. Until the next gathering—see you, and may the Force be with you.