Metro Retail Stores Group, Inc. (MRSGI) is expanding further in Negros and Leyte-Samar provinces in partnership with the local government units to offer more retail access to people in these areas amid encouraging economic growth opportunities in the Visayas.
“We are excited to bring modern retail services to communities that have long been underserved,” said Manuel Alberto, President and Chief Operating Officer of MRSGI.
In Catbalogan, MGSGI has forged a joint venture with the Samar provincial government, includes several key components aimed at boosting retail access, community development, and regional infrastructure. The initial phase of the project includes a two-story retail building that features a supermarket and a compact department store. The subsequent phase will expand the facility into a 2-3 storey mall to meet the growing demand for diverse retail offerings.
Alberto said that the Metro Catbalogan supermarket and department store, showcases diverse retail offerings that cater to the needs of the local community.
The development also includes a convention center, a government center, and a transport terminal, all of which have already been completed and handed over to the local government. These components strengthen the region’s administrative and transportation infrastructure.
A key aspect of the project is the plan to develop a hotel that aims to become a flagship destination for tourists. It will offer various amenities and services for both visitors and residents, fostering a vibrant atmosphere that promotes tourism and economic growth in the region.
In Negros Occidental, MRSGI has partnered with the local government of Hinigaran in a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to build a new retail complex. Located in a former public market, the 6,000-square-meter facility is designed to address the retail needs of a population nearing 100,000.
The three-level facility will feature a ground floor dedicated to home improvement, a second floor with a supermarket and lifestyle section, and a third floor with retail spaces for local businesses. This development aims to provide the community with a one-stop shopping experience, reducing the need for residents to travel to Bacolod for essential goods.
The Hinigaran project also emphasizes convenience, with plans to integrate the facility with the nearby Ceres Bus Terminal for improved customer access. As the first development of its kind in Hinigaran, it is expected to drive further growth in both the commercial and residential sectors.
The Samar and Hinigaran projects are part of MRSGI’s ongoing expansion efforts in the Visayas, aligning with the strong economic growth in these regions. For example, Eastern Samar registered an 8.1% economic growth in 2023, while Negros Occidental experienced a 6.9% growth. These developments reflect MRSGI’s commitment to enhancing retail access, fostering community development, and strengthening regional infrastructure.
Alberto said that with multiple stores already operational in Leyte, Samar, and Negros Occidental, MRSGI is well-positioned to capitalize on the region’s growth with additional developments already in progress.
MRSGI has established presence across the Visayas, with key stores including Metro Supermarket Alangalang, Super Metro Calbayog, Metro Baybay, and Metro Bacolod.
“As we continue to expand our presence across the Visayas and beyond, we remain focused on making a positive impact in the communities we serve,” said Sherisa P. Nuesa, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of MRSGI.
“Our vision is to create retail spaces that meet the evolving needs of local residents while driving economic growth, fostering community engagement, and advancing sustainability initiatives. This expansion is a key milestone in our long-term commitment to regional development, and we look forward to the continued success and impact of our projects in the region,” said Nuesa.
To date, Metro Retail operates a total of 70 branches across Luzon and the Visayas under the store formats Metro Supermarket, Metro Department Store, Super Metro Hypermarket, Metro Value Mart, and Metro Home and Lifestyle.
MRSGI is capitalizing on the impressive GDP expansions and strong performance in key sectors like retail, construction and tourism in Negros Occidental and Eastern Samar. It also cited its strong backing with the LGUs in the regions.
