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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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Love Is in the Air: A Sky-High Valentine’s Weekend at the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in New Clark City

Imagine waking up before sunrise, the air still cool and quiet, when suddenly the sky begins to glow.

One by one, giant balloons bloom into color—reds, yellows, blues, and playful shapes—rising gently with the morning light. Cameras click. Music drifts through the breeze. Someone gasps. Someone else laughs. And just like that, love, wonder, and adventure float together overhead.

This February 13–15, 2026, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) returns to New Clark City, Tarlac, bringing back the country’s longest-running and most beloved sky festival—just in time for Valentine’s weekend.

No passport needed. No overseas flight required. Just look up.

Three Days Where the Sky Comes Alive

For three unforgettable days, New Clark City transforms into a playground for dreamers, thrill-seekers, families, and couples looking for something a little more magical than the usual weekend date.

Hot air balloons take flight as early as 6:30 AM, painting the sunrise with drifting giants and soft flames. It’s the kind of moment that makes you pause mid-step, coffee in hand, simply to stare.

And that’s just the beginning.

Expect a festival packed with:

  • Drones and aerial tech showcases
  • Paragliding and paramotor stunts
  • Live music and entertainment
  • Car shows and drifting exhibitions
  • Food stalls and local finds
  • Family-friendly activities and kite flying

It’s part aviation showcase, part food fair, part music fest—and completely unforgettable.

A Valentine’s Date You’ll Never Top

If you’re planning something special for February 14, this might just be it.

Picture this: a romantic dinner under glowing hot air balloons, flames flickering against the night sky, live music filling the air, and the soft buzz of celebration all around you.

The Valentine’s Dinner experience (₱1,800 per person) offers couples an intimate evening of good food, warm lights, and that rare kind of atmosphere you can’t recreate anywhere else.

It’s not just dinner.
It’s a memory waiting to happen.

Not Just a Festival — A Front-Row Seat to the Future of Flight

Beyond the spectacle, the Fiesta is also where aviation fans get their fix.

The Aviation Seminar gives students, hobbyists, and professionals insider access to the latest in flying, safety, and innovation. It’s a chance to learn from industry experts and maybe even spark that childhood dream of taking to the skies yourself.

Meanwhile, cutting-edge attractions like the Kyxz Hoverbike demo offer a glimpse into what the future of personal flight might look like.

Yes, it’s as cool as it sounds.

Meet the Giants of the Sky

One of the most delightful parts of the Fiesta? The balloons themselves.

This year brings a parade of whimsical, larger-than-life characters making their Philippine debut—like Finley the Turtle, Tuca the Toucan, colorful Macaws, and even a Walrus floating overhead.

Fan favorites return too: from a flying Yoda to princesses, dragons, witches, and hearts drifting lazily across the sky.

Kids squeal. Adults turn into kids again. Everyone reaches for their phones.

It’s pure joy, floating 1,000 feet up.

Thrills Above and Below

If slow, dreamy balloon rides aren’t enough adrenaline for you, don’t worry.

The skies will also host:

  • Paragliding accuracy competitions
  • High-speed FPV drone races
  • Drone soccer battles

Down on the ground, expect roaring engines, drifting cars, bustling markets, and live performances that turn the evenings into a full-on celebration.

From sunrise to sundown, something’s always happening.

Plan Your Visit

The 26th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta happens February 13–15, 2026 at New Clark City, Tarlac.

Ticket options:

  • ₱750 – General Admission
  • ₱1,000 – Admission + Aviation Seminar
  • ₱8,500 – VIP Pass

Available via HelixPay, SM Tickets, Klook, or on-site.

Some festivals you attend.

Others you remember for years.

This one?
You feel it the moment the first balloon rises and the sky turns into a dream.

So set that alarm early, bring someone you love (or just your sense of adventure), and let New Clark City show you what it looks like when love is truly in the air.

This event is made possible with the support of valued partners: Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and New Clark City; FedEx as the Official Logistics Provider; Hann Resorts and Casino (Widus, Marriott and Swissotel) as Official Hotel Partner; NuStar Online as Lifestyle Gaming Partner; with Festival Friends – McDonald’s Philippines,  Converge, and Prulife UK; and Official Media Partners – BusinessMirror (Print Media Partner), PTV4, and Asian Air Safari.

Stay updated with schedules, announcements, and festival news at www.philballoonfest.net.  Follow the Fiesta on social media for sneak peeks and live updates: Facebook (www.facebook.com/pihabf), Instagram (https://instagram.com/philballoonfest), and TikTok (www.tiktok.com/@philballoonfiesta).

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Seoul Snow Is Bringing a Korean Winter Wonderland to the Philippines

If you’ve ever dreamed of tasting winter in a cup, Seoul Snow might just be your next favorite stop.

This fast-rising Filipino brand is turning heads (and cooling down taste buds) with its authentic Korean snow bingsu—ultra-fine, milk-based shaved ice so soft and fluffy, it melts like fresh snow on your tongue. Think sweet, creamy, and refreshingly light—the kind of dessert that instantly transports you straight to the streets of Seoul.

And now, it’s not just one or two stores.
Seoul Snow is gearing up to open over 70 branches nationwide.

Yep—your Korean dessert fix might soon be right around the corner.

A Taste of Korea, with a Pinoy Twist

At the heart of Seoul Snow’s menu is its signature snow-like texture, made possible by specialized machines that create impossibly fine shaved ice. It’s smoother than traditional halo-halo and lighter than ice cream—basically the best of both worlds.

The flavors? Comforting, playful, and very Instagram-worthy.

Originals

  • Choco Cheese Snow

  • Strawberry Cheese Snow

  • Ube Cheese Snow (a clear local favorite!)

New Flavors

  • Coco Peanut Snow

  • Melon Cheese Snow

  • Seoul Snow Original

Prices stay budget-friendly too, ranging from PHP 49 to PHP 179, making it an easy treat whether you’re a student, barkada, or family out on a mall day.

From Cavite to the Rest of the Country

Seoul Snow’s journey started just recently, opening its pioneer branch in Cavite in November 2025. Not long after, it popped up in Fora Mall, Tagaytay, quickly attracting curious dessert lovers and K-culture fans.

And they’re just getting started.

Coming soon are branches in:

  • Davao (Segue Building)

  • Robinsons Las Piñas

  • Pure Ride Makati

Plus planned openings in Marikina, Antipolo, Baliwag, and Malate.

By early 2026, the brand is set to roll out over 70 stores nationwide—a rapid expansion that demonstrates the strong demand for this popular Korean treat.

More Than a Dessert—A Business Opportunity

Beyond serving sweet snow cups, Seoul Snow is also carving a name in the franchise scene.

Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, the business model focuses on:

  • simple operations

  • compact kiosk setups

  • standardized systems

  • controlled costs

With franchise packages starting at PHP 299,000 and a projected 2–3 month ROI, it’s positioned as an accessible entry point for those looking to start a food business—especially fans of Korean culture who want to turn their love for bingsu into something bigger.

Your Next Cool Craving

Whether you’re chasing dessert after dinner, hanging out with friends, or simply looking for something new to try, Seoul Snow offers a sweet little escape—a Korean winter wonderland in every spoonful.

And with dozens of branches on the way, you won’t have to travel far to get your snow fix.

Follow Seoul Snow on social media to catch the next store opening near you.

Trust us—this is one trend you’ll want to chill with. ❄️🍧

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Taiwan Woos Filipino Travelers at Phil Travel Expo with Visa-Free Access and Round-the-Clock Safe Adventures

Bright lanterns, night market aromas, scenic mountain railways, and streets that feel safe even past midnight—this is the Taiwan being introduced to Filipino travelers today.

At the Philippine Travel Expo in Manila, Taiwan made a confident and heartfelt pitch: visiting the island has never been easier, safer, or more exciting.

Leading the charge is one simple but powerful invitation — visa-free travel.

A Door Opened Wider for Filipinos

During the event’s opening, Ting-Sheng Lee, Deputy Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO), underscored how the Taiwan–Philippines Reciprocal Visa Exemption has transformed travel between the two destinations.

What used to require paperwork and waiting now takes little more than a plane ticket and a passport.

For many Filipinos, that means spontaneous getaways, quicker family visits, and smoother business trips.

“The visa exemption has made travel easier and more accessible,” Lee shared. “It allows people from both sides to build stronger personal connections and a deeper appreciation of each other’s cultures.”

And the impact goes beyond tourism.

Entrepreneurs can now fly in for trade shows and exhibitions with ease. Students can join academic exchanges. Creatives can collaborate across borders. In short, Taiwan isn’t just opening its doors — it’s building bridges.

A Destination That Never Sleeps — Safely

For Filipino travelers, safety and convenience often top the checklist. Taiwan is leaning into both.

Ease Huang, Deputy Director-General of the Taiwan Tourism Administration, highlighted the country’s growing reputation as a 24/7 destination, where exploration doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.

Think bustling night markets, late-night food crawls, illuminated city streets, and public transport that keeps running smoothly.

“Safety, flexibility, and memorable experiences matter to Filipino visitors,” Huang said. “Taiwan’s well-regulated night markets, reliable public transport, and walkable, well-lit cities allow travelers to enjoy nightlife, food, and cultural activities with confidence.”

It’s a big draw, especially for young travelers and barkada trips who want to maximize every hour of their vacation.

Taiwan consistently ranks among the safest places in Asia, thanks to low crime rates and a strong culture of public order—something that gives travelers that extra peace of mind when exploring after dark.

Why Taiwan Feels Like Home

According to Cindy Chen, Director of the Taiwan Tourism Information Center Manila (TTIC), interest from Filipinos has steadily grown in recent years.

And it’s not hard to see why.

There’s the food — comforting bowls of beef noodles, endless milk tea variations, street snacks at every corner.
There’s the accessibility — efficient trains, easy-to-navigate cities.
And there’s the vibe — a warm mix of tradition and modern creativity that feels familiar yet fresh.

“Filipinos are drawn to Taiwan’s accessibility, food culture, safety, and variety of experiences,” Chen explained. “We help make travel planning easy through itineraries, travel information, and partnerships with airlines, tour operators, and media.”

From cultural festivals to scenic countryside escapes, Taiwan offers something for every type of traveler — whether it’s a family trip, solo adventure, or quick weekend break.

More Than a Trip, It’s a Connection

At its core, Taiwan’s presence at the Philippine Travel Expo wasn’t just about promoting destinations. It was about strengthening ties.

With visa-free entry, safe and lively cities, and deeper cultural exchanges, Taiwan is positioning itself as more than just another spot on the map — it’s becoming a neighbor that feels closer than ever.

For Filipino travelers looking for their next international adventure, Taiwan might just be the easiest “yes” they’ll make this year.

Pack light. Bring your appetite. And maybe save some room for milk tea. 🇹🇼✈️

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Enchanted Kingdom, Two Other Filipino Companies Win ASEAN Tourism Awards

The first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines enters 2026 as one of the three Filipino companies that were recognized by ASEAN’s most esteemed honors in tourism!

Now on its 30th year, Enchanted Kingdom (EK) was hailed as the Best ASEAN New Tourism Attraction for its unique flying theater, AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY as awarded by the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA).

The award was received by EK Chairman and President Mr. Cesar Mario O. Mamon together with Chief Operating Officer Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon during the 35th ASEANTA Excellence Awards held this January 27, Tuesday at JPark Island Resorts and Waterpark in Mactan, Cebu.

As part of the 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF), the ASEANTA Excellence Awards 2026 honored “creativity, innovation, and dedication that drive the tourism industry forward” in the Southeast Asia region.

“We are deeply honored and humbled to represent Filipino excellence in tourism and entertainment in this prestigious platform in the ASEAN community. This award fuels our commitment to continuously provide magical experiences like AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY that also contributes towards our shared mission of sustainable tourism,” shared Dr. Mamon.

As the first and only flying theater in the Philippines that’s also a part of EK’s Education Program, AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY has been going above and beyond its core mission to drive educational tourism and national pride by showcasing the natural beauty of the country ever since it was first introduced in 2016.

EK relaunched this attraction last October as part of the theme park’s 30th anniversary celebration, now serving as a powerful call to action — reminding everyone of the urgent need to conserve and protect the environment.

With its enhanced film and overall thematic experience, the flying theater now also takes guests on a magical journey underwater as it features various local marine ecosystems along with some of its diverse yet endangered wildlife.

Aside from EK, two other Filipino companies were also awarded, namely the Muntinlupa-based destination management agency Shroff Travel as the Best Asean Travel Article, and the premier event space SMX Convention Center as the Best ASEAN Convention Centre.

Shroff Travel was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Arjun Shroff, while Mr. Walid Wafik, Senior Vice President–Operations of SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC), received the award for SMX Convention Center during the award ceremony.

Guests can experience EK’s award-winning attraction along with its other rides and offerings from Wednesdays to Sundays, 11AM to 8PM.*

*Park and ride schedules are subject to change without prior notice.

For more information and updates regarding AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY and EK’s other forever enchanting events and offers, visit https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph and EK’s official social media accounts @enchantedkingdom.ph for Facebook and TikTok, and @ek_philippines for Instagram.

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Addressing the Brain Drain: How the SM Group Is Bringing Higher Education Back to the Regions

For decades, many Filipinos have left their hometowns in search of quality education and better career opportunities—often concentrating talent in urban centers while leaving provincial communities underserved. Today, the SM Group, through National University (NU), is helping reverse that trend by bringing accessible, high-quality higher education closer to home.

With a growing presence outside Metro Manila, National University is not only educating students—it is creating jobs, nurturing local talent, and strengthening regional economies.

Expanding Access Beyond Metro Manila

National University now serves more than 84,000 students across its nationwide campuses, with seven campuses located outside Metro Manila. These include NU Bacolod, NU Laguna, NU Baliwag, NU Dasmariñas, NU Lipa, NU Clark, and the newest campus, NU Cebu, which opened this academic year.

What stands out is NU’s strong commitment to local employment. NU Cebu currently boasts 100% local hires, while NU Bacolod employs 96% local staff, NU Laguna 99%, NU Baliwag 98%, NU Dasmariñas 96%, NU Lipa 98%, and NU Clark 97%. These numbers highlight NU’s deliberate effort to provide professional opportunities within the regions they serve.

By offering quality education and employment in provincial areas, NU allows professors, administrators, and students to build meaningful careers without leaving their hometowns.

Standardized Compensation, Stronger Talent Retention

One of NU’s key strategies in addressing brain drain is its standardized compensation package across all campuses nationwide. This approach ensures competitive and equitable salaries regardless of location, making provincial postings more attractive to educators and professionals.

“We bring talent back to the provinces,” said NU President and CEO Dr. Renato Carlos Ermita. “NU offers a standardized salary matrix applicable to all our employees across the country. This approach has helped make our recruitment more appealing to applicants in provincial regions.”

NU President and CEO Dr. Renato Carlos Ermita

By aligning education, labor, and development goals, NU helps reduce inequality between urban and rural areas—strengthening local ecosystems for long-term growth.

Education as a Catalyst for Community Development

NU’s expansion also reflects the SM Group’s vision of responsible community development. Most NU campuses are situated within SM’s social ecosystem, offering students and employees accessibility, safety, and convenience.

“NU is part of SM’s corporate social responsibility,” Dr. Ermita shared. “By allowing campuses to be part of the SM community, accessibility is achieved and affordability is maintained. Transportation hubs are also located near most mall-based campuses, ensuring convenience and safety for students and employees.”

This integrated approach helps communities retain educational talent while reinforcing access to social and economic opportunities.

Coming Home: Stories from NU Cebu

At NU Cebu, the impact of this mission is deeply personal. One of the campus’ returning locals is Executive Director Johanna Minglana, who shared how the opening of NU Cebu allowed her to return home after decades in Manila.

“NU Cebu allowed me to come full circle in my birthplace while continuing my academic career,” Minglana said. She noted that many faculty and staff share similar sentiments—finding purpose in meaningful work without being separated from their families and communities.

According to Minglana, NU Cebu represents more than an academic institution. “It embodies SM’s vision of being a catalyst for community development. It creates jobs not only within the university but also for surrounding businesses—from food establishments and boarding houses to transportation and retail.”

Building the Future, Locally

As National University recently marked its 125th founding anniversary, thousands of alumni gathered to celebrate its legacy and continued commitment to providing world-class, life-ready education. Whether in urban centers or provincial communities, NU remains focused on preparing graduates to thrive wherever opportunity takes them.

By bringing higher education to the regions, NU and the SM Group are proving that talent doesn’t have to leave home to grow—and that meaningful development begins by investing in communities where people already belong.

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Payments Today, Rewards Tomorrow: Make Every Transaction Count with BDO Pay

Why stop at simply paying when every transaction can give you more? With BDO Pay, settling your everyday expenses goes beyond speed and convenience—it turns each payment into a rewarding experience. Every scan, bill payment, or mobile load top-up brings you closer to exciting rewards and exclusive deals that add extra value to your daily spending.

From shopping at your favorite stores to taking care of essentials, BDO Pay makes sure you earn while you spend.

Shop Smart, Earn Instantly

From February 1 to March 31, 2026, using BDO Pay’s Scan to Pay at SM Store and SM Retail affiliates gets even more rewarding. For every ₱5,000 accumulated spend, you’ll receive a ₱100 SM eVoucher, with up to ₱300 worth of eVouchers available per customer during the promo period.

Whether you’re stocking up on beauty essentials at Watsons, restocking your pantry at SM Supermarket, adding stylish touches to your home from Our Home, or browsing exciting finds at SM Store, BDO Pay helps you get more value from every purchase.

Load Up on Points

Rewards don’t stop at shopping. From January 16 to March 31, 2026, every time you Pay Bills or Buy Load through the BDO Pay app, you earn 1 Rewards Point for every ₱100 spent.

Getting started is easy—just log in to the BDO Pay app, activate your BDO Rewards Card, and start earning points instantly. You can also track your rewards anytime, all in one place.

Simple, Secure, and Designed for Your Lifestyle

BDO Pay is built to make everyday transactions effortless. With features like Pay Bills, Send Money, Scan to Pay, Split Bill, and Request Money, managing your finances is quick, safe, and seamless. Add exclusive rewards into the mix, and every transaction becomes even more worthwhile.

Make every payment count. Download BDO Pay from the App Store, Google Play, or AppGallery, sign in using your BDO Online username and password, and experience how convenience and rewards work better together.

For full promo details and the complete list of participating SM Retail merchants, visit bdo.com.ph/bdopay-evouchers.