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Welcome to the metropolista!

Looking for fresh new inspiration for your next OOTD? How about where to travel on your next vacation leave? Any trendy food to try in your free time? What current released gadgets and technologies can pique your interest? Worry no more because the metropolista has got you covered!

the metropolista delivers the latest news trends in the city! It has been our goal that this website provides fashion, travel, food, technology, news, and feature articles in the metro. So stay tuned for the following posts that keep you updated on the happenings around the metropolis!

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Enchanted Kingdom marks its 31st Anniversary with enhanced AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY and a night of OPM music

Enchanted Kingdom (EK), the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, renews its commitment to sustainability and biodiversity as it celebrates its 31st Anniversary with the second set of enhancements to its award-winning flying theater, AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY this October.

As a highlight of its Fiesta ng Saribuhay anniversary campaign, EK will continue to share more enchanting stories of Saribuhay through the attraction’s new and enhanced pre- and post-show experiences that showcase the rich biodiversity of the Philippines and reinforce its call for Filipinos to appreciate and take care of our environment.

Among the enhancements is Kwento ng Agila, an immersive walkthrough accessible upon entering the AGILA building. Through immersive visuals and storytelling, the new entry experience takes guests behind the scenes, revealing the attraction’s inspiration, the symbolism behind its architecture, and its development by an all-Filipino team.

Further along the walkthrough, guests will be introduced to the world of the Agila, or Philippine eagle, through a glimpse of its natural habitat and the various species that thrive within its ecosystem. It also traces the lifecycle of the Agila, highlighting its plight as one of the critically endangered birds in the world.

This builds on EK’s steadfast commitment to eagle conservation, earlier demonstrated by its adoption and continued support for the care and breeding of Enchanting Kagitingan, a male Philippine eagle, in partnership with the Philippine Eagle Foundation.

Additionally, the immersive experience extends beyond the atrium lobby, as augmented reality (AR) brings the landing queue leading to the Enchanted Forest to life through the guests’ smartphones.

EK has also given PUGAD, the attraction’s in-house concept store, a new direction as part of the AGILA improvements. The refreshed retail space will now incorporate an enchanting mix of entertainment and learning to encapsulate the overall AGILA experience.

The attraction’s existing facilities remain operational and accessible to all guests, while its newly updated areas will officially launch on October 17.

Almost a decade after its launch, AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY was reimagined in October 2025, placing renewed focus not only on tourism but also on sustainability and appreciation for the country’s natural heritage. It was later recognized as the Best ASEAN New Tourism Attraction by the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA) in January 2026.

EK celebrates its 31st Anniversary with Fiesta ng Saribuhay

EK is all set to celebrate its 31st Anniversary as it releases more updates on its events, shows, and other offerings throughout October.

Following the announcement of its anniversary events in late August, the theme park has unveiled the complete lineup of performers at its Fiesta ng Saribuhay Concert on October 17 at the Spaceport Grounds. The spectacular night will showcase world-class Filipino music and talent through live performances by award-winning R&B hitmaker Dionela, 1Z Entertainment’s rising P-pop girl group XONARA, indie band Sacred Red, and other up-and-coming artists, alongside EK’s homegrown talents, SMS and Kingsmen.

The celebration will culminate in the Lipad ng Agila: A Pyromusical Fiesta, giving EK’s signature evening send-off a magical twist as vibrant pyrotechnic displays and symbolic imagery bring the spirit of the festivities to the night sky.

Every weekend in October, the EK Storyverse Characters will bring all the magic and excitement across the park’s themed zones during the Fiesta ng Saribuhay Anniversary Parade. And on October 17, street dance performers will join in the parade as it serves as a festive prelude to the concert proper.

Meanwhile, Run to 31: Takbo ng Saribuhay, a fun run celebrating biodiversity through fitness and togetherness, will take place on October 11 in partnership with the United RSBS Boulevard Stakeholders Federation (URSF). Registration is now open at the EK Online Store, with 1.5K, 3K, and 5K routes available for interested participants.

SMS and Kingsmen will also mark the park’s 31st anniversary with new music. The P-pop girl group will release their rendition of Lipad, while the all-male vocal group has re-recorded a festive version of their song, Saribuhay. Both tracks will soon be available on all major streaming platforms.

Meanwhile, parkgoers can immerse themselves in other seasonal experiences at the Agila Grounds, including the Ube-Matcha Festival from October 14 to 18, which showcases the fusion of local flavors with other well-loved favorites, and Palarong Pinoy, a set of skill-based activities featuring traditional Filipino street games, launching just in time for the main anniversary festivities.

More in-park food options also await Filipinos as EK welcomes new tenant partners, with Minimelts launched in September and Mango Royal scheduled to open on October 3.

*Schedules are subject to change with prior notice.

For more information and updates on EK’s 31st Anniversary Celebration and its other events and offerings, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph on Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines on Instagram.

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Game On, Worries Off: BDO Insure Brings a New Level of Protection to Racket Sports Enthusiasts

From pickleball courts to tennis matches, BDO Insure introduces affordable protection that lets Filipinos enjoy their favorite racket sports with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Racket sports are having a moment in the Philippines, and it looks like the excitement is here to stay! From the growing popularity of pickleball to the timeless appeal of tennis and badminton, more Filipinos are picking up their rackets, hitting the courts, and embracing a more active lifestyle.

Whether it’s a friendly match with colleagues after work, a weekend game with friends, or a competitive rally with fellow enthusiasts, racket sports have become more than just a fitness activity. They’re now a way to socialize, unwind, stay healthy, and build communities.

But while players are busy perfecting their serves, upgrading their equipment, and investing in their game, there’s one important court essential that often gets overlooked: personal protection.

Recognizing this need, BDO Insure is stepping onto the court with the country’s first Racket Sports Insurance, an affordable insurance solution designed to help players enjoy their favorite sport with fewer worries.

A Winning Move for Every Racket Sports Enthusiast

Every player knows that preparation is part of the game. From choosing the right racket and wearing comfortable sports shoes to staying hydrated and warming up before a match, being court-ready means having the essentials covered.

But accidents can happen even during the friendliest games. An unexpected fall, a sudden injury, or damage to expensive sports equipment can quickly turn an enjoyable day on the court into an unexpected expense.

That’s where BDO Insure’s Racket Sports Insurance comes in.

For as low as ₱1,199 per year, racket sports enthusiasts can enjoy affordable coverage designed to protect both themselves and their valuable equipment.

The plan provides up to ₱100,000 in medical reimbursements for accident-related expenses, including coverage for eye injuries, which can be particularly important in fast-paced racket sports.

Beyond personal protection, the insurance also offers up to ₱60,000 in coverage for rackets and paddles against damage caused by fire and acts of nature.

It’s a practical addition to every player’s game plan, especially for those who have invested in quality sports equipment.

Protection Made Simple, Just Like Your Favorite Game

One of the best things about BDO Insure’s Racket Sports Insurance is its convenience.

Forget complicated paperwork and lengthy application processes. Enrollment is fully digital, making it easier for players to secure coverage without disrupting their busy schedules.

Even better, no medical examination is required to apply.

The insurance is available to individuals aged 7 to 65, with renewability until age 70, making it an option for young athletes, recreational players, and older sports enthusiasts who want to continue enjoying an active lifestyle.

Whether you’re just discovering pickleball, returning to tennis after years away, or regularly joining community matches, having insurance can provide an added layer of financial protection.

Because Being Game-Ready Means Being Protected

As racket sports continue to attract more Filipinos, the meaning of being prepared is evolving.

It’s no longer just about bringing the right racket, extra balls, a towel, and a water bottle. It’s also about making smart decisions that help protect your health, your equipment, and your finances.

After all, enjoying the game should be about the excitement of every rally, the satisfaction of a great shot, and the friendships built along the way—not worrying about the potential cost of an unexpected accident.

With its affordable annual premium and accessible digital enrollment, BDO Insure is making insurance another practical essential for today’s active Filipinos.

So, before your next serve, smash, or winning shot, consider adding one more item to your court-ready checklist: protection that goes beyond the game.

Because the best players don’t just come ready to win. They come prepared for the unexpected.

To learn more about BDO Insure’s Racket Sports Insurance, visit the official BDO website and discover how you can make protection part of your game plan.

Coverage is subject to the policy’s terms, conditions, exclusions, and applicable limits.

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Holiday Spending Made Smarter and Simpler with BDO Pay

The “BER” months mark the start of the country’s most anticipated holiday season. As families prepare for gift shopping and festive celebrations, making every peso count becomes important when planning meaningful reunions to create lasting memories.

With expenses likely to pile up, BDO Pay helps Filipinos stretch their budget by offering free money transfers, seamless QR payments, and bill payments without extra charges. It’s your reliable and secure everyday payment app for all holiday transactions, from shopping to settling bills, and even sending Aguinaldo.

With BDO Pay, enjoy convenient, secure, and no-fee transactions throughout the holidays—and beyond.

Your all-in-one holiday payment app

The season means more gatherings, more purchases, and more expenses. BDO Pay keeps transactions simple, secure, and cost-efficient, so you can focus on celebrations instead of fees.

    • Pay instantly with no fees for all transactions. Scan any QRPh code to pay directly from your BDO account or debit card, or choose Scan to Pay with your BDO credit card using the BDO Pay POS terminal.
    • Send gifts without fees. Send Aguinaldo to inaanaks or split expenses with relatives at no cost. With BDO Pay’s Send Money feature, you can transfer funds to BDO accounts, other banks, and e-wallets for free using an account number, QR code, or mobile number.
    • Stay on top of bills. Settle dues to over 2,200 billers, like electricity, transportation, water services, and telecommunications, all without fees. Amid the holiday rush, pay on time without lining up or juggling multiple apps, and enjoy BDO Pay’s all-in-one convenient platform.

Easy access for first-time users

For those who have yet to discover BDO Pay, there’s never been a better time to start.

Opening a basic account through the BDO Pay app is quick and hassle-free. Customers can open an account in just a few minutes using only one valid ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, with no initial deposit or balance maintenance required, making banking accessible to more Filipinos.

BDO Pay also makes everyday transactions effortless and secure. Easily collect shared expenses with Request Money, access installment offers for big purchases, and stay protected with instant card lock for your BDO Credit and Debit Cards whenever needed.

This season of giving, BDO Pay Mo Na!

Holiday spending is in full swing, but managing your everyday payments can be hassle-free. With BDO Pay, you have everything you need in one easy-to-use app that lets you spend smart, enjoy the festivities, and make your every peso count.

Download BDO Pay today from the App Store (iOS), Google Play Store (Android), or Huawei AppGallery (HarmonyOS).

 

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11 ASEAN Member States and ASEAN Partner Countries in One Immersive Exhibition in Manila on November 10 to 12, 2026

“Way of the Weave,” the central theme of the ASEAN Trade Expo 2026, will bring the cultures, craftsmanship, and enterprises of ASEAN countries and Southeast Asian partners to Okada Manila from November 10 to 12, 2026, as one of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairship flagship events.

For three days, Manila will become a meeting point for ASEAN’s artisans, women entrepreneurs, cultural industries, buyers, investors, and government leaders, creating a space where heritage is not simply displayed but also connected to markets and new opportunities.

The exhibition is expected to bring together more than 200 ASEAN women-led enterprises and cultural industry participants and attract international buyers, investors, trade ministers, and regional decision-makers.

Where cultures meet, and business begins

The regional showcase allows each ASEAN country, including Southeast Asian country partners, to showcase through country booths their nation’s products and enterprises, reflecting their character, creativity, and economic potential. To date, leading the country booth exhibition are the Philippines and Singapore, each with a 24 sq meter full country setting.

Visitors can explore textiles, woven traditions, handicrafts, cultural products, local goods, and women-led enterprise offerings.

The Philippine Booth Tells Its Story Through the Weave

The Philippines is home to generations of indigenous weaving traditions, each carrying its own language of color, technique, identity, and community. At the Philippine showcase, visitors will see top weaves represented by the island winners of the Amazing Weaves Distinction Awards 2026, along with handicrafts and other products that showcase the best of Philippine craftsmanship and creativity.

Among the Philippine traditions that will be highlighted are the T’nalak of the T’boli, Yakan of Basilan, and Inabel of the Ilocos, alongside weaving traditions from Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and BARMM. A highlight is the Aklan pina, a notable handloom weaving officially recognized by the UNESCO Intangible cultural heritage of the Unity.

These pieces are more than beautiful displays. They embody knowledge shared across generations, communities relying on their craft for livelihood, and enterprises expanding from local to global markets. This is the story the Philippine booth brings to the ASEAN stage: that cultural heritage can be both a source of identity and a source of economic opportunity.

The top weaves at the Philippine showcase booth are mainly the works of winners from the Amazing Weaves Distinction Awards 2026, a recognition mounted in partnership with the Women’s Business Council Philippines, GalingPook Foundation, Department of Trade and Industry, Philippine Commission on Women, DOST – Philippine Textile Research Institute, and TESDA.

A shared future, woven together

Ultimately, the Way of the Weave: ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 is envisioned not simply as a trade exhibition but as a meeting point where ASEAN’s diverse cultures, enterprises, and opportunities come together to create stronger connections across borders.

Led by women entrepreneurs, PCW Commissioner Rosemarie Rafael, concurrent Chairperson and Founder of Airspeed Group of Companies, with Myrna Yao as Co-Chair, CEO of Richprime Global Inc. and concurrent PCW Commissioner, along with Dr Karen De Asis, a 2025 ASEAN Women Entrepreneur (AWEN) awardee, founder of MKS Marketing Consulting, who represented the Philippines for her advocacy of helping family businesses develop and build strong brands that continue to become category-dominant market leaders or challengers through generations.

The ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 invites ASEAN member countries to showcase their nation’s weaves, as well as local and international visitors to experience the region’s products, stories, and possibilities. There will be free visitor registration and business matching available on an opt-in basis. More than an exhibition, Way of the Weave seeks to leave visitors with a simple proposition: that when ASEAN’s people, enterprises, heritage, and ambitions are woven together, the region’s shared future becomes stronger, more connected, and more open to the world.

Way of the Weave: ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 is organized with WomenBizPH, the Philippine Country Local Organization of the ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs’ Network under ASEAN-BAC Philippines. For partnership, exhibition, and event inquiries, the ASEAN Trade Expo 2026 Secretariat may be reached at partners@aseantradeexpo.com or womenbizph.secretariat@gmail.com, or by phone at +63 917 126 3211.

More information is available at www.womenbiz.ph.

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The Hair They Came For: Why Asian Hair Needs a Different Kind of Care

We’ve gotten pretty good at reading skincare labels—checking ingredients, understanding what our skin needs, and choosing products accordingly. Now, that same level of care is extending to hair, as consumers become more mindful of what goes into their haircare products and how those choices affect their hair health.

A 2025 study by the Journal of the Korean Society of Cosmetology found that consumers’ perceptions of hair-care products containing natural extracts can influence their purchasing behavior, reflecting a growing interest in what goes into the products we use. But when it comes to hair, the conversation goes beyond the bottle. It also starts with understanding the hair itself.

That was part of the conversation when Tints of Nature Managing Directors Vicki Borley and Katharine Crew visited the Philippines. With years of experience developing and working with products for different hair types, their visit offered an opportunity to look more closely at the diversity of Asian hair—from its different textures and structures to the ways it can respond to color and care.

Asian Hair Has More Than One Story

There’s no single definition of Asian hair. While it is often associated with straighter textures and relatively thick strands, a 2025 multinational study found variation in characteristics such as hair thickness, dryness, damage, and curl pattern across populations.

Hair can differ in strand diameter, texture, density, porosity, and the shape of the hair fiber—from fine, straight strands to thicker, more textured hair. Its history also matters: coloring, bleaching, heat styling, and environmental exposure can all change the hair’s condition and how it responds to further treatment.

“There are a lot of different textures and types of hair within Asian hair, so it’s important not to treat it as one category. Understanding the individual hair and how it responds to color is key. Whether the hair is straight, thick, fine, or previously treated, the approach needs to consider its condition to achieve the best result. We very much believe in an approach that works effectively across all hair types,” said Vicki Borley, Professional Sales & Co-Managing Director of Tints of Nature.

Think of Color as Part of the Care Routine

That understanding can also change how consumers approach hair color. As they become more ingredient-conscious with the products they put on their bodies, including their hair, consumers are looking beyond the immediate result and paying closer attention to what comes into contact with their hair and scalp. This becomes especially relevant for hair that has already been exposed to bleaching, straightening, heat styling, or other treatments.

Tints of Nature takes this approach through formulas made with 95% naturally derived ingredients, while its permanent hair color contains 75% certified organic ingredients. Its permanent colors are also ammonia-free and resorcinol-free, with the lowest levels of PPD in permanent hair colors, while its henna range contains zero PPD. The range is vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested.

Color and aftercare are also treated as part of the same process, with products such as the Hydrate or Structure Treatment, Hydrate Shampoo, and Hydrate Conditioner supporting hair care before and after coloring.

“Because we have a much gentler color system, we do have to think about how we approach coloring the hair a little differently. It’s not just about putting the color on and getting the result—it’s also about preparing the hair properly and caring for it afterwards. When you take that extra care, you can still achieve beautiful, shiny, professional results,” Borley added.

Your Hair Didn’t Get the One-Size-Fits-All Memo

The takeaway is simple: know your hair before you color it. Most importantly, make care part of the coloring process rather than an afterthought.

This is also why Healthy Options carries Tints of Nature. Its approach to hair color aligns with their broader commitment to offering products that support healthier lifestyles without compromising effectiveness. Tints of Nature combines salon-quality color with conscious formulations and botanical extracts designed to nourish and protect hair during coloring.

“At Healthy Options, we look for products that reflect the same standards we believe in—ingredient transparency, conscious formulations, and a commitment to long-term wellness alongside beauty results. Tints of Nature brings those values together through its use of certified organic and naturally derived ingredients, its vegan and cruelty-free credentials, and its focus on hair and scalp health. It allows our customers to make better choices without compromising on performance,” said Romy Sia, Managing Director of Healthy Options.

After all, beautiful hair isn’t about following one formula. It’s about understanding what makes your hair yours—and choosing color and care that work with it. For Asian consumers, particularly in the Philippines, that means celebrating the range of textures and structures that make Asian hair unique, while giving each one the thoughtful care it deserves.

 

 

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2GO Gives BEACON Expo 2026 Exhibitors a Smoother Route from Setup to Showcase

For exhibitors, a successful trade show starts long before the doors open. From transporting booth materials and securing permits to coordinating ingress and pull-out schedules, event logistics can be just as critical as the products and services being showcased.

At BEACON Expo 2026, around 300 maritime businesses are set to experience a more streamlined approach to event logistics, with 2GO serving as the official logistics partner and event forwarder for the country’s premier maritime trade exhibition.

The initiative is designed to take some of the complexity out of event preparation through 2GO-SMX Events Logistics, a centralized permit and logistics facilitation system created by 2GO Group, SMX Convention Center, Central Business Park (CBP), and SM Estates.

The system builds on the partnership recently established among the four organizations to make event operations within the SMX Convention Center and the Mall of Asia Complex more efficient and coordinated.

Making Event Logistics More Seamless

For businesses participating in major exhibitions, logistics involves much more than simply moving equipment from one location to another. Exhibitors need to navigate permits, venue requirements, delivery schedules, ingress procedures, booth setup, and eventually the pull-out of materials after the event.

2GO-SMX Events Logistics brings these requirements together under a more centralized process.

Through the initiative, 2GO facilitates permit applications for exhibitors and contractors, coordinates endorsements with SM Estates, processes submissions with CBP, and provides logistics support throughout ingress, event operations, and pull-out.

The goal is straightforward: reduce administrative work for exhibitors while helping ensure that venue and estate requirements are properly addressed.

“By simplifying logistics and permit facilitation, we allow exhibitors to focus on what matters most: showcasing their products, engaging with customers, and contributing to industry development,” said Faye Alonzo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Forwarding.

“Through 2GO-SMX Events Logistics, we are providing a single point of coordination that streamlines processes and supports exhibitors from preparation through event completion.”

Getting Exhibitors Ready Before the Expo

To help participants navigate the process, 2GO recently hosted an exhibitors’ briefing ahead of BEACON Expo 2026.

The session brought together the Maritime League of the Philippines, exhibitors, contractors, SMX venue managers, media representatives, and 2GO logistics teams to align expectations and requirements before the event.

Participants were briefed on event requirements, booth protocols, logistics procedures, venue operations, and important timelines. By providing these details ahead of time, exhibitors have an opportunity to plan their deliveries and setup activities more effectively and minimize potential operational delays.

Supporting the Maritime Industry

BEACON Expo 2026 carries the theme “Empowering Maritime Excellence: Advancing a Sustainable Blue Economy,” bringing together maritime industry leaders, regulatory partners, suppliers, and businesses from across the country.

With hundreds of participating businesses, effective coordination becomes an important part of creating a productive exhibition environment.

The 2GO-SMX Events Logistics framework is designed to strengthen coordination among the different stakeholders involved—from exhibitors and contractors to venue operators and regulatory authorities.

By bringing these groups into a more integrated logistics process, the partnership aims to create a smoother experience throughout the entire event cycle, from preparation and ingress to the actual exhibition and eventual pull-out.

Beyond Logistics

The collaboration highlights how logistics can play a bigger role in the success of industry events.

For exhibitors, having a centralized system for permits, transportation, and venue coordination can mean less time dealing with administrative requirements and more time focusing on business opportunities, networking, and engaging with customers.

As preparations for BEACON Expo & Conference 2026 continue, 2GO’s partnership with SMX Convention Center, CBP, and SM Estates demonstrates how integrated logistics solutions can help make major industry gatherings more organized and efficient—while supporting the evolving needs of the Philippine maritime sector.

For more information about 2GO and its services, visit 2GO Philippines.