EXO event canceled due to rising global nCoV cases

An event featuring K-pop band EXO has been canceled due to concerns over the novel coronavirus or nCoV.

The "Journey to the Nature Republic in Manila" was scheduled on February 22, but the rising number of nCoV cases and deaths forced the organizers to cancel the event.

South Korean beauty brand Nature Republic made the announcement through a Facebook post on Wednesday.

"All of us, both the organization and EXO-Ls has already given a part of us in this once in a lifetime event but to disregard our own sacrifices for the better good of the majority is one of our way of showing our devotion to you," the statement read.

"And again, yes we hear you and care for your safety. Therefore, we opt to take this path and with a heavy heart."

A third case of the novel coronavirus in the Philippines was confirmed by the Department of Health on Wednesday.

EXO held its fourth solo concert in the country last year. The nine-member boy band even added a second day to its Manila leg. —Angelica Y. Yang/MGP, GMA News