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| MNL48 Makes Long-Awaited Return on NET25 with Mixed Fan Reactions (NET25) |
Filipino girl group MNL48, a sister group of Japan’s renowned AKB48, made their first television appearance in months on NET25’s morning talk show Kada Umaga on 24 April, performing their songs “RIVER” and “MNL48.”
The performance marked a significant moment for the group, as it heralded the official comeback of member Lara, who had been dismissed from the group in 2024.
However, the return has sparked a wave of mixed reactions from fans, with some expressing disappointment while others showed cautious support.
MNL48, formed in 2018 under the AKB48 franchise, has faced challenges in recent years, including a prolonged hiatus that left fans speculating about the group’s future.
Their appearance on Kada Umaga, a programme broadcast by NET25—a network owned by the religious organisation Iglesia ni Cristo—was a highly anticipated moment for their fanbase, known as MNLoves.
The group performed two songs, “RIVER,” a cover of AKB48’s 14th single, and “MNL48,” showcasing their signature idol style.
MNL48 performs for the first time in a while with "RIVER" and "MNL48"
— 48RH (@48RequestHour) April 24, 2025
This performance marks Lara’s official comeback to the group, following her dismissal last year. https://t.co/p53OmchBlD pic.twitter.com/1SKq3u8eFj
The event also featured a later appearance by MNL48 and their sub-unit Quadlips on One Balita Pilipinas at 12:00 PM, further amplifying their return to the spotlight.
A key highlight of the performance was Lara’s return to the group.
Lara had been dismissed in 2024, an event she addressed light-heartedly on Instagram with a meme that hinted at her relief and possible frustrations with the group prior to her exit.
Her comeback was met with excitement by some, but it also became a focal point of criticism. A fan commented, “The second sentence doesn’t sit right after watching the performance… Lara is such a mess,” suggesting her return may have disrupted the group’s cohesion.
The performance itself drew varied reactions.
Many fans expressed disappointment with the overall execution, with another fan likening it to a “school talent show” and critiquing the choreography as “all over the place” and the outfits as unflattering.
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| Fans Say MNL48 “Deserves Better” After Awkward RIVER Performance |
The group’s attire, which consisted of modest red-and-white checkered dresses paired with black tights, was attributed by some to NET25’s conservative editorial stance.
@MnlovesJosh noted, “I think they are not allowed to show some skin due to the network being a subsidiary of Iglesia ni Cristo,” a religious organisation known for its conservative values and influence over NET25’s programming.
NET25 has previously faced criticism for biased reporting, which may have extended to how MNL48 was presented on air.
Other fans called for better training and support for the group.
@bararrr0 stated, “They deserve better training and treatment,” while @pl4nismind went as far as requesting the post be deleted, reflecting a sense of embarrassment over the performance.
Despite the criticism, some fans were more sympathetic.
@moodjianto pointed out that MNL48 is “just back from a long hiatus,” urging others to temper their expectations, while @foolishyukirin highlighted a positive note, stating that member Jamie “carried” the performance.
MNL48’s history provides context for the fans’ reactions.
The group has experienced significant changes, including the departure of members Trixie, Zen, Van, and Mae in 2018, and more recently, Laney Sañosa and Karla dela Paz in February 2025.
Despite these challenges, MNL48 has had notable achievements, such as performing at international events like the One Love Asia benefit show alongside other AKB48 sister groups.
Their fanbase remains dedicated, as evidenced by past events like the “Meet Your Oshimen” fan meeting in 2024, where 300 ticket-holding fans met their favourite members.
The group’s return also coincides with their upcoming activities, including virtual fan interactions organised by the Philippine Pro Gaming League, where select members will engage with fans online.
For now, the group’s loyal MNLoves are left hoping for a stronger showing in future performances, as MNL48 works to reclaim their place in the competitive world of idol groups.