Sports Archives - The Metropolista

25 September 2025

Your Final Shot: Scan to Pay with GCash and Win a Trip to the NBA China Games 2025

Are you a huge fan of the NBA? Prepare to witness the action on the court closer than ever before! You have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the NBA China Games 2025 at The Venetian Arena in Macao thanks to GCash.

Two lucky winners will each get two tickets to see the Brooklyn Nets play the Phoenix Suns live, as well as airfare and somewhere to stay.

Your Ticket to the NBA China Games

If you use GCash Scan to Pay to make a purchase for P4,000 or more between September 22 and 30, 2025, you will get one digital scratch card for every transaction.

One lucky person will win a pair of two tickets to the NBA China Game on October 10 and a Fan Meet & Greet pass on October 11. The winner will also get a round-trip ticket and a place to stay. Another winner will get a round-trip ticket and a place to stay for the NBA China Games on October 12.

You can also win GCash | Travel+ and GCash | Alipay+ Overseas Offline vouchers, which is even better. You can use these to pay for flights, hotels, eSims, vehicle rentals, and things you buy in stores.

To sign up, all you have to do is go onto your GCash app and go to the Alipay+ Destination Campaign page. During the promotion period, each registered user can win up to five scratch cards. So the more you use GCash overseas, the better your chances of winning!

Traveling with GCash is easy and stylish.

Your travel abroad will go more smoothly than a fast break with GCash Scan to Pay. You may use GCash at more than 80 million Alipay+ merchants, whether you’re eating street food in Thailand and Malaysia, viewing the sights in Japan and South Korea, or shopping for the latest fashions in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macao. You can use Scan-to-Pay at retailers, restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores, just like you can at home.

What is the best part? You will always get real-time, competitive foreign exchange rates with no service fees, which will help you make the most of your money for more memorable experiences. Plus, you can see your wallet balance in the local currency right away, so you can keep track of your spending without missing a second of the action. When you utilize GCash Alipay+ Scan to Pay, you can get special prices and offers that you can’t get anywhere else.

It’s easy to pay for things with GCash. To make a payment, just touch QR on the dashboard, scan the merchant’s QR code, enter the amount, and confirm the payment. You can also choose “Generate QR,” then “Pay abroad with Alipay+,” and show your QR to the cashier to have it scanned. You will then get a receipt in both the local currency and the Philippine peso.

Your next vacation abroad could be your chance to see exciting courtside action and have a wonderful time traveling. Scan to pay with GCash today and try to win tickets to the NBA China Games 2025.

Are you ready for your next trip? You can get the GCash app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei App Gallery. You can do it!

To see all the details of the promo, go to the GCash app.
According to DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-236852 Series of 2025

23 September 2025

SOCEX Consulting Corporation: Driving Force Behind the 18th Reggie Padua Cup

The UP Triskelion Alumni Association Inc. (UP TAAI), in collaboration with SOCEX Consulting Corporation, proudly announces the 18th Reggie Padua Cup Invitational Golf Tournament, scheduled for Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Hallow Ridge Filipinas Golf Inc., San Pedro, Laguna.

This exclusive event, exclusively for Triskelion Brothers and Sisses, goes beyond sports, fostering camaraderie and providing support to the National Children’s Hospital’s Hematology Unit. It continues the legacy of strength, free will, and brotherhood.

For the second consecutive year, SOCEX Consulting Corporation has been entrusted with the esteemed role of partner for the UP Triskelions Alumni Association, Inc. SOCEX, renowned for its precision and professionalism, has successfully executed corporate and community projects.

Major car manufacturers and golf supply and apparel companies have renewed their sponsorships for the highly anticipated Hole-in-One challenges, a testament to their trust in SOCEX’s proven ability to deliver impactful results for their partnered brands.

Poch Calimag, CEO of SOCEX Consulting Corporation, emphasizes the importance of treating all stakeholders with utmost regard. SOCEX’s work goes beyond mere program creation and execution; it builds trustworthy partnerships that genuinely impact lives.

The tournament remains open to all Triskelion golfers who aspire to compete, secure victory, and contribute to a noble cause.

Date: Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Venue: Hallow Ridge Filipinas Golf Inc., San Pedro, Laguna

Beneficiary: National Children’s Hospital – Hematology Unit

Register here:18th Reggie Padua Cup Registration

For management consulting needs, brand activations, media management and other PR-related inquiries, contact SOCEX Consulting Corporation at corp.projects@socexconsulting.com

14 September 2025

Catriona Gray and Taiwan Excellence’s LOHAS Lifestyle Make Their Philippine Debut at Market! Market!

The three-day LOHAS Days event, organized by Taiwan Excellence, began on September 12 at Ayala Malls Market! Market! with the formal kickoff. The event’s goal is to encourage Filipinos to adopt a LOHAS lifestyle. Upon her official introduction as a Taiwan LOHAS Advocate, Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray held a press conference that kicked off the event.

Group photo of brand representatives for LOHAS Days. From left to right: Fu Bear, Arnold Wilson (Marketing Manager, Anytime Fitness Asia Corporate), Sky Pichay (_, JK Fitness), Armin Lavilla (Aropec), Ms. Josephine Shun (Director of the Economic Division, TECO), Mr. Alex Lai (Director, Taiwan Trade Center, Manila), Markki Stroem, Catriona Gray, Steve Chen (Chief Operating Officer, Starbia), Jacqueline Hsiao (Vinxper)

This was a huge deal for Taiwan, as it was an opportunity to showcase their sustainability and wellness technologies to the people of the Philippines. In a show of solidarity, senior executives from Taiwanese institutions and well-known health businesses were there.

Invigorating the audience and signifying Taiwan’s dramatic debut into the wellness scene in the Philippines, the press conference started with a lively cheer dance performance set to the anthem of Taiwan’s professional baseball team.

“Taiwan is serious about health.” The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Josephine Shun, Director of the Economic Division of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines. A lofty goal, Healthy Taiwan, is being advocated for by our government. One of the world’s top three producers of fitness equipment, Taiwan is also known as the Bicycle Kingdom. I hope you enjoy your surroundings and have a great time with your loved ones.

Bringing over 30 unique items, 17 Taiwanese enterprises have participated in the LOHAS movement, according to Mr. Alex Lai, Director of the Taiwan Trade Center Manila. The Taiwan Excellence Awards have honored innovation, one of Taiwan’s most cherished characteristics. The conviction that innovation improves people’s lives is the foundation of every award.

Miss Universe 2018, Catriona Gray, spoke on the importance of the LOHAS movement in the Philippines.

According to Miss Catriona Gray, who is very enthusiastic about the movement:

I’ve always looked up to Taiwan because of how seriously it takes health and fitness issues. The sharing of LOHAS in the Philippines serves as a powerful reminder that we can all adopt a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.

During the launch ceremony, Anytime Fitness Asia Corporate’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Ms. Anne Constantino, spoke about her time working with the smart workout equipment firm Johnson Fitness, based in Taiwan. Aropec, Vinxper, Starbia, and JK Fitness are among the other Taiwanese brands that are on board with the project.

First Day: What to Do

On September 12, Market! Market! came alive all day long as participants in LOHAS Days could enjoy free fitness activities like spin classes, yoga, and high-energy body combat.

At LOHAS Days, you may find wellness seminars and exercise classes, but you can also peruse a wide array of cutting-edge items from renowned Taiwanese firms. These products demonstrate the seamless integration of technology and sustainability into everyday life:

The XTC SLR 29 from Giant features their superior ALUXX SLR aluminum frame, which is known for its exceptional lightness, stiffness, and durability. This frame guarantees stability, speed, and assured handling on any terrain.
Makalot is an AI-powered motion tracking suit that uses dependable sensors and algorithms to precisely record joint motion and angles in AR/VR and animation.

The Swift Edge 14 AI from Acer is designed to be both creative and productive, with a long battery life of up to 21 hours.

FECA’s Slam Dunk Basketball Kit showcases their magic suction technology and provides a flexible, sturdy, and environmentally friendly play area for individuals of all ages.

The Power Hydrate Face Essence by Annie’s Way is a non-sticky, ultra-fast-absorbing face serum that revitalizes, hydrates, and refreshes the skin with a blend of green tea and retinol.

JoJoin us at the Ayala Malls Market for the Lohas Games!et in the game!

At Taguig City’s Ayala Malls Market! Market! LOHAS Days will keep going till September 14. Visitors can participate in fitness classes, wellness seminars, interactive displays, and product showcases that highlight Taiwan’s health and sustainability innovations. There will be fun things for the whole family and fitness fanatics to do, including meeting the event’s lovable mascot, FuBear.

Check out Taiwan Excellence PH’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph for more details about LOHAS Days.

11 April 202511 April 2025

ArenaPlus Celebrates with the PBA Season 49 Commissioner’s Cup Champions

ArenaPlus, your gateway for 24/7 sports entertainment in the Philippines, witnessed greatness at the Quantum Skyview, Gateway Mall 2, as they joined the TNT Tropang Giga at their victory party last March 30, 2025.

The Commissioner’s Cup is one of the three major tournaments in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). This specific league allows teams to invite a foreign player to play with them as an import. In this 49th season of the cup, TNT Tropang Giga beat the Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in a seven-game series that crowned them the Commissioner’s Cup champions.

As a major sponsor for this PBA season, ArenaPlus had the privilege to join the Tropang Giga in their victory party last Sunday. TNT fans were able to have a photo opportunity with the Katropas and have their jerseys signed during the celebration.

Photo courtesy of PBA: ArenaPlus merchandise was given to TNT Tropang Giga victory party attendees.

ArenaPlus also gave a gift package as a token to Rey Nambatak, who was awarded the finals MVP for his exemplary performance at the PBA finals against Ginebra. In addition, ArenaPlus merchandise, such as duffle bags and string bags filled with ArenaPlus treats, was also given to the attendees.

Moreover, the team and some important personages dined together and shared a significant moment after the party during a dinner at Novotel Cubao. While TNT’s success reflects their hard work and perseverance, their victory is also of great significance to ArenaPlus’ goal of helping Filipino athletes achieve their astig moment in life.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, which are widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. DigiPlus also operates SpinPlus and GameZone, with more to come. For more information, visit www.digiplus.com.ph.

11 March 2025

Introducing the Instinct 3 Series from Garmin: Rugged smartwatches now with AMOLED displays

Boldly designed for an active lifestyle, the newest smartwatches offer bright AMOLED or solar-charged displays, a metal-reinforced bezel and built-in LED flashlights on all models

The newest collection of tough smartwatches, Garmin’s Instinct® 3 Series, is available with a stunning AMOLED or solar-powered display for maximum battery life. Designed with explorers in mind, the Instinct 3 Series adds a built-in spotlight on every model and a metal-reinforced bezel for great durability. With amazing battery life, it’s easy to discover more; the AMOLED versions get up to 24 days on a single charge in smartwatch mode, while the solar charging devices can obtain infinite battery life.

Thanks to its sturdy build and fashionable, limited-edition colors, Instinct 3 is the smartwatch you should wear everywhere, anytime. Full of connected features, well-known built-in sports apps, and 24/7 health and wellness monitoring, the newest collection is designed to enable you to follow your passions—whatever they may be. Dan Bartel is Garmin’s Vice President of Global Consumer Sales.

strong but forceful

Featuring a metal-reinforced bezel, a fiber-reinforced polymer case, and a scratch-resistant display for ultimate durability, the Instinct 3 Series is ready for any challenge. Built to MIL-STD 810 for thermal and stress protection, the new series is also water-rated to 100 meters. Now found on all Instinct 3 models, a built-in flashlight offers different intensities, a red light, and a strobe mode to aid in increasing awareness in dark surroundings, such as while spelunking in caves, sorting through a gear bag, or recounting terrifying tales around the campfire.

The solar-powered variant is 50 mm, and the AMOLED Instinct 3 is 45 mm and 50 mm. Both choices are part of the new, limited-edition Tropical Pulse Collection. They feature sleek hues, including Black and Black/Charcoal, plus vivid and vibrant colors, including Neotropic and Neotropic/Twilight.

More to love about the Instinct 3 Series.

Greater solar efficiency: A larger, more effective solar lens better uses solar power. The new 50mm Instinct 3 Solar gains more than five times the battery life in GPS mode while solar charging than the Instinct 2 Solar.
Track steps, heart rate, sophisticated sleep monitoring, wrist-based Pulse Ox2, heart rate variability (HRV) status, and more around-the-clock health and wellness monitoring. Women’s health tracking tools, meanwhile, provide fitness and nutritional information in addition to allowing users to monitor their menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

Morning report: Upon awakening, get a tailored view of last night’s sleep, the calendar for today, and HRV state.

Intelligent alerts: When matched with a suitable Apple® or Android™

Garmin Messenger™ app: Get emails, texts, and notifications right on the watch. From the watch4, send two-way text messages to friends and family.

Satiq™ Multi-Band GPS: Maximizes battery life and enjoys outstanding positional precision.

Share quickly and simply saved locations, routes, and workouts with other compatible Garmin smartwatches and Edge® cycling computers nearby.

See how the Instinct 3 Series can enable you to follow yours, wherever the adventure takes you, on our YouTube website.

Look farther.

Instinct 3 Series is the ideal friend to appreciate the great outdoors with sports apps, including hiking, jogging, cycling, golfing, fishing, skiing, and more. TracBack® routing provides reference points of known locations relative to the starting place as well as a path back there while out exploring. One can negotiate the next path using the built-in altimeter, barometer, and 3-axis electronic compass. To review more thorough maps, establish waypoints and courses, and more to maximize their next excursion, users can also pair their Instinct 3 with the Garmin Explore™ App.

Engage in activity.

Apart from built-in sports applications for outdoor adventures, the Instinct 3 Series is filled with apps for HIIT, cardio, indoor and outdoor track running, pickleball, basketball, and more. Train for a milestone, get ready for the next race, or use Garmin Coach adaptive and prebuilt running and cycling programs to raise general fitness. View a whole week of daily suggested workouts that adjust after every run or cycle, or design step-by-step routines from more than 1,600 exercises in the Garmin Connect™ app, then forward them straight to the watch. Track intensity minutes, VO2 max, and recovery periods to get direction on suggested recovery times to lower burnout and fatigue.

Maintain connectivity.

View smart notifications and work out with more peace of mind thanks to safety and tracking tools, including incident detection, help, and LiveTrack5 when teamed with a connected smartphone.

The 45mm AMOLED model will be available February 26 under the Garmin Instinct 3 series at a suggested retail price of PHP 29,290; the 50mm variant will go for PHP 32, 490. Available for PHP 29,290 will be the 50mm solar charging devices. Get yours through Kinetic, Lazada, Shopee, or the official Garmin PH website.

Designed on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have transformed adventure, athletic, off-road, road warrior, and outdoor enthusiast life everywhere. Garmin thinks every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to surpass yesterday, committed to creating products that improve experiences, enrich lives, and assist in bringing peace of mind.

1. Assumes all-day wear, 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions.

2. This is not a medical device and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or monitoring of any medical condition; see Garmin.com/ataccuracy. Pulse Oxis is not available in all countries.

3. Activity tracking accuracy.

4. When paired with your compatible smartphone. Requires both the sender and receiver of messages to have the Garmin Messenger app installed on their paired smartphones.

5. When paired with your compatible smartphone. For safety and tracking feature requirements and limitations, see Garmin.com/safety

About Garmin International, Inc.

Garmin International, Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (NYSE: GRMN). Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin and Forerunner are registered trademarks and Garmin Connect, Garmin Pay, PacePro, Body Battery and Connect IQ are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Apple is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Android is a trademark of Google LLC. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks and service marks are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

2 March 2025

Celebrating the 22nd Annual Club Punta Fuego Regatta: Solidifying Nasugbu, Batangas’ Set as a World-Class Water Sports Destination

22nd Annual Club Punta Fuego Regatta, to embrace the freedom of the open seas and promote Nasugbu, Batangas, as a premier global water sports destination.

MVP-led Landco Pacific Corporation proudly presented the esteemed 22nd Annual Club Punta Fuego Regatta for the fifth consecutive year, starting in 2021, further solidifying Nasugbu, Batangas, as a premier location for world-class water sports.

“We aim to establish Nasugbu, Batangas, as a premier hub for elite sailing and water sports, attracting an affluent community of sailing enthusiasts, sports aficionados, and global tourists,” shared Gerard Peñaflor, Vice President for Commercial and Customer Experience of Landco Pacific Corporation.

Roman Azanza’s Tututango bagged first place in the Ocean Multihull category of the 22nd Club Punta Fuego Regatta. From left: Gerard Penaflor, VP for Commercial and Customer Experience, Landco Pacific Corporation; Roman Azanza, Owner, Tututango—First Place for Ocean Multihull; Edgar Krohn; Sally Azanza; and Ed Umali, Race Officer, Club Punta Fuego Regatta, together with Tututango crew members (2nd and 5th from left).

“In line with the Department of Tourism’s vision and in collaboration with the residents of our luxury developments—Terrazas de Punta Fuego and Peninsula de Punta Fuego—we are committed to crafting extraordinary experiences that further elevate the country’s status as a leading water sports destination,” Peñaflor added.

This aligns with the Department of Tourism (DOT)’s mission to position the Philippines as a global water sports hub. “Just as the country is celebrated internationally for its rich marine biodiversity and world-class diving spots, we envision the Philippines as a premier playground for water sports,” said DOT CALABARZON Regional Director Marites T. Castro.

“With our breathtaking islands, picturesque coastlines, warm hospitality, and ideal wind conditions, this vision is well within reach. We also look forward to restoring and strengthening our partnership with the sailing community to further promote this sport among Filipinos,” she added.

Terrazas de Punta Fuego and Peninsula de Punta Fuego, Landco Pacific’s premier seaside developments, served as the stunning backdrop of the elite sailing and water sports competition.

A Celebration of Sport, Prestige, and Community during the Club Punta Fuego Regatta

The two-day Club Punta Fuego Regatta, which has been going strong for decades, is now a staple of the sports tourist industry in Southern Luzon. Participating in this elite regatta is a privilege for a select group of accomplished individuals—including prominent businesspeople, entrepreneurs, and political figures—who share a love of sailing and a thirst for adventure, friendly rivalry, and shared experiences at sea.

Pablo Lobregat’s Despacito emerged as the Overall Champion of the 22nd Club Punta Fuego Regatta. From left: Gerard Penaflor, VP for Commercial and Customer Experience, Landco Pacific Corporation; Eduardo Legarda; Pablo Lobragat, Owner, Despecito – the Over-all Champion; Marites Castro, Calabarzon Regional Director, Department of Tourism (DOT); Santi Picornell; and Edgar Krohn; together with Despacito crew member (2nd from left).

Pablo Lobregat’s Despacito took first position in the Overall-Cruising competition, with Eric Nicolas’ Dantes in second place, Papaya, owned by Renato Ticzon, and Neptunus III, owned by Richard Mcgonegal, occupying third and fourth places, respectively. Roman Azanza’s Tututango won the Ocean Multi-Hull race, while Mochu Garcia’s Cariño finished in second place.

Club Punta Fuego and the Philippine Inter-Island Sailing Foundation (PHINSAF) are collaborating to host the races, which will take place at Terrazas de Punta Fuego and Peninsula de Punta Fuego, two of Landco Pacific’s most exclusive waterfront communities. These exclusive communities are ideal for exciting competitive sailing, further elevating Nasugbu’s status as a premier water sports destination.

The Prestige and Investment Legacy of Punta Fuego

For over three decades, Peninsula de Punta Fuego, an elite residential resort community spanning 88 hectares, has been the centerpiece of Landco Pacific Corporation’s coastal luxury development portfolio. Punta Fuego, a two-hour drive from Metro Manila, is known for its high-value real estate, unparalleled tranquility, and luxurious lifestyle.

Punta Fuego is one of the most profitable investment destinations in the nation, with property values increasing by more than 1,000% since the development began in the 1990s. Club Punta Fuego, an elite membership resort, a championship golf course, and first-rate water sports facilities are just a few of the world-class amenities offered by this community.

Club Punta Fuego draws inspiration from Fisher Island in Miami, Florida, combining contemporary amenities with the beauty of nature. Each room and casita at this Spanish-Mediterranean themed resort has a king-sized bed, a large bathroom, and stunning views of the West Philippine Sea.

Indulge in a world of luxury at this resort. This resort offers a variety of amenities such as oceanfront restaurants with sunset views, endless infinity pools, and a serene spa retreat, making it the perfect hideaway for those seeking to relax while still experiencing the excitement of the great outdoors.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Chance to Own a Paradise Home at Terrazas de Punta Fuego

Landco Pacific presents The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, a high-end beachfront condo development created for picky buyers and investors, marking the last chance to join the exclusive Punta Fuego neighborhood.

The Residences are comprised of three low-density clusters and include apartments with one to three bedrooms. Their architecture seamlessly combines Asian tropical and Spanish Mediterranean elements, and they offer expansive views of Nasugbu Bay. Additionally, residents have direct access to 800 meters of perfect white sand beach.

Expansive living areas with high ceilings, plenty of windows, and private balconies characterize each apartment, guaranteeing tranquility and seclusion in addition to stunning beach views. The Residences are the epitome of coastal luxury living, featuring a pool, a spa, a sauna, a function room, a lobby lounge, garden courtyards, and more.

Punta Fuego has a history of over 1,000% value appreciation, making The Residences a very attractive investment opportunity with the chance for remarkable returns and a long-term impact.

The Residences provides residents and guests with unparalleled views of Nasugbu’s premier sailing spectacle, the yearly Punta Fuego Regatta, and other elite water sports events.

The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego is the most prestigious beachfront condominium in the Philippines, and Landco Pacific Corporation has been at the forefront of premium landscaping for over 30 years.

For more information, visit https://www.landco.ph/, https://theresidencespuntafuego.landco.ph/, or https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation.