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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 unveils 31st anniversary events and offerings, announces new developments at AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY

Enchanted Kingdom, the Philippines’ premier theme park, is gearing up for its 31st Anniversary with Fiesta ng Saribuhay, a month-long celebration that showcases the country’s rich biodiversity. This October, guests can expect an enchanting lineup of exciting shows, world-class entertainment, and other anniversary experiences.

EK’s theme for this year’s anniversary aims to enrich every guest’s visit by highlighting the Philippines’ unique beauty. The park will present a grand showcase of its people, culture, and biodiversity, making the country truly enchanting.

The festivities officially commence on October 2 with an enchanting World Teachers’ Day Celebration. This event will feature insightful sessions, captivating performances, and special treats and giveaways dedicated to the inspiring educators who nurture the next generation of Filipinos.

Guests can also take a symbolic step towards sustainability, wellness, and togetherness by participating in Run to 31: Takbo ng Saribuhay Fun Run on October 11. EK will share more details about the event, including registration information, on its social media pages soon.

Every weekend in October, the Fiesta ng Saribuhay street dance performances will bring the country’s vibrant culture and festive spirit to life across the park. EK’s Storyverse characters will also add their magical touch to the festivities with their spectacular nighttime parade.

On October 17, the Fiesta ng Saribuhay Concert will spotlight Filipino music, talent, and pride. R&B hitmaker Dionela will headline the star-studded lineup of OPM acts, ensuring that the anniversary festivities are truly unforgettable.

The celebration continues on October 18 with another exciting set of Fiesta ng Saribuhay performances featuring more OPM artists. Details about these performances will be revealed soon.

Embark on a culinary journey through the archipelago with EK’s newest Saribuhay Menu, a delightful offering of healthy and hearty local dishes from the featured destinations in the upcoming AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY film. This exciting menu will soon be available at LaunchTime and Amazon Grill restaurants.

EK continues to expand its diverse selection of in-park food and dining options. In the coming months, new tenant partners will join the EK family, including Pepper Lunch at the EK Portico, Minimelts, Stroop & Zo, and Mango Royal.

AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY 2.5

As EK celebrates its 31st anniversary, the launch of AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY 2.5 this October marks a significant milestone. This new installment introduces captivating immersive pre- and post-show experiences that bring the enchanting stories of biodiversity to life. Upon entering, guests will embark on a multi-sensory walkthrough that unveils the inspiration, symbolism, and creation of the attraction.

Delve deeper into the walkthrough and immerse yourself in the natural habitat of the Philippine eagle. Gain insights into its lifecycle and witness the poignant plight of one of the country’s most iconic and critically endangered birds.

EK is also elevating the retail experience at Pugad, AGILA’s in-house concept store. The store will feature displays and experiences that seamlessly blend retail, education, innovation, and sustainability. Guests can leave Pugad not only with souvenirs but also with a deeper appreciation and understanding of their overall AGILA experience.

AGILA The EKsperience: SARIBUHAY, a renewed attraction launched in October 2025, has a mission that extends beyond tourism to champion sustainability. Last January, it was notably named the Best ASEAN New Tourism Attraction by the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA).

EK has expanded its advocacy beyond the park by partnering with its homegrown P-pop girl group, SMS, to become the Saribuhay Explorers. These ambassadors will use short-form digital content to raise awareness about AGILA and the local biodiversity among audiences both inside and outside the park.

*Schedules are subject to change with prior notice.

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

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Strong Performance, Stronger Trust: How SM Supermalls Is Shaping the Future of Filipino Mall Culture

SM Supermalls isn’t just keeping pace with the times—it’s setting the rhythm. Fresh off a record-breaking first half of 2026, the country’s largest mall operator is proving that strong numbers are only part of the story. The real win lies in trust: the enduring confidence of tenants, shoppers, and communities who continue to see SM as more than a mall—it’s a lifestyle hub.

A Business Built on Foot Traffic and Faith

From January to June, SM Supermalls grew revenues by 8%, hitting ₱41.8 billion. That growth was fueled by expanding leasable space, more tenant sign-ups, and steady foot traffic averaging 3.7 million daily. With over 23,000 tenants now under its roof, SM’s portfolio is bigger, busier, and more diverse than ever.

President Steven Tan summed it up best: “Our growth reflects the enduring trust of our tenants and shoppers. Despite macroeconomic headwinds, they continue to find value in the variety of our offerings and the strong sense of community in our malls.”

Beyond Retail: Pickleball, Marathons, and More

Transformation at SM isn’t just about square meters—it’s about experiences. In the first half of 2026 alone, SM added 41 new Pickleball courts, bringing the nationwide total to 102 across 32 properties. Sports and leisure are now part of the mall DNA.

And then came June 12: the Galaxy Manila Marathon, the first-ever full marathon to take over EDSA. With 25,000 runners pounding the pavement, SM proved it could turn the country’s busiest highway into a stage for wellness and community.

Sustainability at Scale

SM’s transformation isn’t just about fun—it’s about responsibility. The company expanded its rooftop solar PV system to 122 MWp, powering malls with clean energy. It also achieved 100% coverage for free EV charging stations across all 90 malls, with 203 chargers now available nationwide.

These moves reinforce SM’s role as a community partner, not just a commercial landlord.

Strongest Brand, Strongest Bond

For the second year running, SM Supermalls was named the Philippines’ Strongest Brand by Brand Finance, scoring 95.3 out of 100 on the Brand Strength Index. With an AAA+ rating, SM isn’t just leading in revenues—it’s leading in relevance.

The Next Chapter: My SM

Looking ahead, SM is rolling out My SM, a five-year transformation platform designed to evolve malls around the changing needs of Filipino communities. From new entertainment acts to leisure concepts, the strategy is clear: keep innovating, keep connecting.

The highlight? The upcoming opening of SM Nuvali, the 91st mall in the portfolio. Positioned in South Luzon’s growth corridor, it promises an upscale concept unlike anything the Philippine market has seen before.

Final Take

SM Supermalls is proving that malls can be more than shopping centers—they can be ecosystems of trust, innovation, and community. With strong performance fueling stronger bonds, the brand is evolving for the next generation of Filipinos who want more than retail—they want experiences, sustainability, and a sense of belonging.

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More Than Cars and Bikes: Why Automotive Communities Are Becoming the New Weekend Lifestyle

For many Filipinos, weekends are no longer limited to trips to the mall, café hopping, or staying at home. Across Metro Manila, a growing number of people are spending their free time at car meets, motorcycle gatherings, and enthusiast events—where vehicles bring people together and shared passions create lasting connections.

What was once simply a gathering of car or motorcycle owners has evolved into a lifestyle experience. From riders meeting up after sunset to automotive enthusiasts proudly showcasing their latest builds, these events have become vibrant spaces for people with a common passion.

Families come to explore, friends reconnect, and content creators capture the community’s energy and excitement. At the same time, local businesses—including cafés, food stalls, detailing shops, and automotive accessory brands—benefit from the growing culture surrounding these gatherings.

More Than Just Machines

For today’s automotive enthusiasts, it is no longer simply about horsepower, modifications, or the latest accessories. It is about belonging to a community that shares knowledge, appreciates craftsmanship, and values the journey as much as the destination.

This growing culture has transformed automotive gatherings into a regular part of the weekend lifestyle. Whether someone owns a heavily modified vehicle, a daily-driven motorcycle, or simply enjoys being surrounded by fellow enthusiasts, the community has a place for everyone.

Recognizing the passion and diversity within these groups, AISIN Philippines continues to support enthusiast-driven gatherings such as the Broke Boys Club Car Meet and the Grupo PCX Anniversary Event.

Bringing Automotive Solutions Closer to Enthusiasts

Each automotive community has its own interests and needs. Car enthusiasts may focus on performance, maintenance, and customization, while motorcycle riders often look for products that can support the demands of everyday commuting and weekend adventures.

At the Broke Boys Club Car Meet, AISIN allowed participants to explore its wide range of aftermarket automotive solutions. The lineup included engine oils, drivetrain components, engine parts, brake products, wiper blades, horns, cooling system products, and car care items—offering enthusiasts a closer look at AISIN’s extensive range of products for passenger vehicles.

Meanwhile, at the Grupo PCX gathering, AISIN highlighted its motorcycle engine oils. Riders had the opportunity to learn more about lubricants designed to provide reliable protection and performance, whether for daily commutes through the city or spirited rides during the weekend.

Connecting With the People Behind the Vehicles

As a global Japanese manufacturer of original equipment and aftermarket automotive products, AISIN sees enthusiast events as more than just an opportunity to showcase its product lineup.

These gatherings provide a chance to connect directly with the people behind the vehicles—the drivers, riders, builders, and everyday enthusiasts who invest their time and passion into maintaining and improving their machines.

Beyond product awareness, AISIN also promotes responsible vehicle maintenance and emphasizes the importance of choosing quality replacement parts that contribute to long-term performance, reliability, and safety.

Today’s enthusiasts are also more informed than ever. Before making a purchase, many research products online, watch reviews, join discussions, and seek recommendations from fellow members of the community. This growing awareness has made conversations about preventive maintenance, quality components, and proper vehicle care increasingly important.

Driving Filipino Automotive Culture Forward

The automotive community continues to prove that cars and motorcycles can bring people together in ways that go beyond the machines themselves.

Through its participation in community-driven events, AISIN Philippines reinforces its commitment to supporting enthusiasts—not only by providing trusted automotive products, but also by helping promote a culture of proper vehicle care among both four-wheel and two-wheel communities.

Whether it is two wheels or four, every memorable journey is made better by the people who share it.

As automotive gatherings continue to become part of the Filipino weekend lifestyle, AISIN celebrates more than vehicles and machines. It celebrates the friendships, passion, creativity, and shared experiences that continue to drive Filipino automotive culture forward.

For more updates and information, follow the AISIN Philippines Official Facebook Page.

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2GO Powers Mindanao’s Growth Story

Connectivity took center stage at the 35th Mindanao Business Conference, where 2GO, the country’s largest end-to-end transport and logistics provider, reaffirmed its role in driving the region’s next chapter of growth.

Speaking before business leaders, 2GO COO and CFO William Howell underscored that Mindanao is not a “peripheral story” but a core engine of the Philippine economy. From agriculture and fisheries to energy, manufacturing, mining, exports, and tourism, the region’s industries are poised for expansion—if connections are strengthened.

“Connectivity is not merely about moving goods and passengers. It is about enabling commerce, expanding access, attracting investments, and strengthening communities,” Howell said.

Why Connectivity Matters

Howell laid out four pillars shaping Mindanao’s economic advantage: industry, growth engines, connectivity, and tourism. The message was clear—products and people can only reach their full potential if the networks linking them to markets, customers, and opportunities are robust.

2GO’s Network in Action

    • Forwarding hubs: 93 nationwide, 18 in Mindanao, handling 1.5 million packages annually.
    • Sea Solutions: Serving seven Mindanao ports (Cagayan de Oro, Ozamiz, Butuan, Dipolog, Davao, General Santos, Zamboanga) and moving 2.5 million metric tons of cargo in 2025.
    • Specialized logistics: Cold chain, project logistics, e-commerce, and cross-docking for faster, smarter supply chains.
    • Passenger travel: 36 active routes nationwide, 18 connecting Mindanao, with 37 weekly voyages linking Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Beyond Cargo, Building Communities

2GO’s integrated services go beyond freight. By connecting entrepreneurs, workers, tourists, and communities, the company positions itself as a partner in inclusive growth, not just a transport provider.

Looking Ahead

The conference theme—“Accelerating Inclusive Growth through Innovation and Sustainability”—placed connectivity at the heart of discussions on resilience, smart industry, energy transition, digital infrastructure, and MSME financing. For 2GO, the message is simple: Mindanao’s future depends on stronger links across the archipelago.

 

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SM Group Earns Six ESG Edge Impact Awards for Responsible Business

The SM Group received six recognitions at the 2026 Inquirer ESG Edge Impact Awards, reflecting its commitment to creating long-term value through investments in people, communities, and responsible business practices.

SM Investments Corporation Recognized for Social Impact

SM Investments Corporation (SM Investments), the parent company of the SM Group, received two Gold awards under the Social category.

    • The SM Sustainability School, a group-wide learning program, was recognized for building sustainability knowledge and leadership among nearly 100,000 employees.
    • The Community Health Systems initiative of SM Foundation earned Gold for improving healthcare access in underserved communities.

SM Investments also received a Silver award for embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across the employee experience — from recruitment and development to workplace policies and community engagement.

“This recognition belongs to our people, who bring our values to life every day,” said Frederic C. DyBuncio, President and Chief Executive Officer of SM Investments.

Other SM Group Companies Honored

    • SM Retail received a Silver award under the Environment category for SM Green Finds, which helps customers identify products that support sustainable choices.
    • SM Prime won Gold in the Transformation category for its Waste-Free Future campaign, advancing waste reduction efforts.
    • BDO Foundation earned Silver in the Innovative Partnership category for its financial education programs, empowering communities with financial literacy.

Commitment to Responsible Business

Together, these awards reflect SM’s belief that responsible business is integrated into the way the group operates—from developing its people and supporting communities to enabling customers to make informed, sustainable choices.

Organised by the Inquirer Group of Companies, the ESG Edge Impact Awards recognise organisations that make meaningful contributions to environmental stewardship, social development, and good governance in the Philippines.

As Gold awardees, SM Investments and SM Prime will represent the Philippines at the Asia ESG Positive Impact Awards in Malaysia this November, showcasing Filipino leadership in sustainability on the regional stage.

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Diversifying Your Investment: How to Transition from Gold to Bitcoin

Gold, a reliable wealth safeguard, attracts investors seeking diverse investment options. Combining traditional assets with innovative digital options maximizes returns and secures financial futures.

Integrating digital gold into portfolios builds enduring wealth. This trend is gaining traction, with Asian countries holding 64.5% of global gold jewelry and bullion demand, as reported by The Economist. The World Gold Council also observed a surge in digital gold product popularity.

While traditional gold and stocks may limit returns, many investors view Bitcoin as a complementary asset to gold in a well-rounded portfolio.

Alden Paul Yburan, Head of GCrypto, explains that Filipinos seek ways to safeguard their money amidst financial pressures. GCash offers digital gold and curated cryptocurrency options alongside traditional assets, empowering users to build long-term financial resilience and maintain a balanced portfolio within a trusted platform.

Reasons behind gold investors’ interest in Bitcoin:

– Digital gold provides stability and inflation hedging, maintaining value during economic uncertainties.

– It eliminates the logistical complexities of physical ownership, such as visiting jewelers, substantial upfront cashouts, and secure vault storage.

Investors seeking accelerated portfolio growth are increasingly turning to Bitcoin, a decentralized digital asset that has emerged as one of the fastest-growing investments over the past five years, surpassing traditional funds and local stocks.

A Bitwise study reveals that incorporating a manageable amount of Bitcoin into a diversified portfolio consistently enhances risk-adjusted returns, allowing investors to increase potential returns without proportionally increasing overall risk.

Bitcoin’s global networks facilitate 24/7 trading, enabling convenient management or conversion of holdings from smartphones. Its price movements are generally independent of traditional markets, ensuring portfolio exposure to different market pressures simultaneously.

Yburan explains that Bitcoin and traditional markets complement each other. When traditional markets experience downturns, Bitcoin acts as a cushion, while when technology and digital adoption surge, Bitcoin serves as an accelerator.

Users can manage both digital gold and Bitcoin directly from their phones using GCrypto on GCash.

GCrypto makes acquiring digital gold accessible, starting at ₱500. Investors can grow their holdings at their own pace through small, consistent contributions. GOLD in GCrypto is fully insured, certified, and backed 1:1 by physical gold stored in high-security vaults in Switzerland. Investors can monitor, buy, or sell 24/7.

Yburan emphasizes that transitioning from gold to the broader cryptocurrency market is user-friendly. Growing investors can gain direct exposure to Bitcoin, one of the fastest-growing modern asset classes, without managing multiple external applications. GCrypto removes traditional barriers, enabling more Filipinos to build long-term financial resilience within a trusted platform.

GCrypto offers a comprehensive resource, A Beginner’s Guide to Crypto, within the app to help users understand Bitcoin and other major tokens.

GCrypto’s carefully curated token selection ensures market strength and credibility, helping users avoid scams and ‘rug pulls.’

Unlike traditional investments, GCrypto offers a more accessible option. With GOLD in GCrypto, users can start exploring Bitcoin and supplement their digital gold investments for as low as ₱500.

Upgrading financial strategies doesn’t mean abandoning proven methods. It’s about expanding investment choices for financial peace of mind and potential wealth growth.

Ready to start your cryptocurrency investment journey? Open the GCash app, go to the Invest tab, and select GCrypto. Download the GCash App from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. Kaya mo, i-GCash mo!

The information provided is for informational purposes only and doesn’t constitute financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified financial professional before making investment decisions. Remember, all investments carry risks, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance isn’t indicative of future results. Any reliance on the information is at your own risk.