TACLOBAN CITY – The first-ever Metro Retail Store on Samar Island officially opened in Catbalogan City on Friday, August 30.
The opening ceremony was attended by officials from Metro Retail Stores Group Inc. (MRSGI), led by President and Chief Operating Officer Manuel Alberto and Food Retail General Manager Chit Lazaro.
Provincial board member Fe Tan Arcales represented Governor Sharee Ann Tan, and Catbalogan City officials headed by Vice Mayor Coefredo Uy, were also present. Several local chief executives from municipalities across Samar province joined the event.
The Metro Retail Store in Catbalogan is the result of a joint venture agreement between the provincial government and MRSGI.
The project involves converting a 22-hectare property in Catbalogan City into a mixed-use complex.
“This joint venture is a testament to what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work hand in hand, and we are excited to be part of this dynamic community,” Alberto said during his speech.
“The opening of this Metro Supermarket is not just about expansion; it’s about bringing a higher standard of service and a wide range of quality products to the people of Catbalogan,” he added.
The first phase of the Metro Retail investment in Catbalogan will be completed this September with the opening of the Metro Department Store and Metro Home.
“We consider this Catbalogan store launch a key factor in our expansion into the Visayas region. With this store, we are determined to contribute to the local economy, create job opportunities, and support the communities we serve,” Alberto emphasized.
MRSGI also announced that, under Phase 2, an annex building will be constructed to house a mall complex featuring top national brand stores and restaurants. This mixed-use commercial development will also include a government service building, a convention center, and a hotel.
As part of the Metro Catbalogan opening, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from the province, assisted by the Department of Trade and Industry, were given the opportunity to display their products in the supermarket for over a month.
This initiative is part of the “Bayanihang Metro Caravan,” a regular feature of Metro Retail during fiestas and store openings.
MSMEs with fast-selling products during the caravan are encouraged to continue selling them in Metro Supermarket.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
