Metro Retail to build Ormoc store, expands Visayas network

Metro Retail Stores Group plans to develop a three-story retail complex in Ormoc City, Leyte, with groundbreaking targeted for late 2026. The project will house a Metro Supermarket, department store and commercial spaces, creating jobs and supporting local vendors.

Metro Retail Stores Group, Inc. (MRSGI) announced plans to open a three-story retail facility in Ormoc City, Leyte, as part of its expansion in the Visayas. The listed retailer said the planned Metro Ormoc development will be built at the corner of Real, Lopez Jaena, and Rizal streets.

Site handover and groundbreaking are targeted for late 2026, with full-scale construction expected to begin in early 2027. The development will house a Metro Supermarket and Metro Department Store, as well as retail spaces for food and service tenants and parking facilities, the company said.

MRSGI President and Chief Operating Officer Joselito Orense said the company views Ormoc as a location for further regional expansion because of its role as a commercial center in Eastern Visayas. “With Metro Ormoc, we are bringing together our retail formats in a development that responds to local consumer needs while creating opportunities for local businesses, suppliers, and workers to participate,” he said.

The company said the project is expected to create jobs in construction, retail operations, facilities management, and logistics. MRSGI also plans to allocate commercial space for regional vendors and local micro, small, and medium enterprises, and intends to include locally produced agricultural goods, delicacies, and artisanal products in its retail offerings.

MRSGI Chairperson Sherisa Nuesa said the company plans to work with local communities as it expands into new locations. During the formalization of the partnership with the Ormoc City government, MRSGI presented the proposed design of the development to city officials. The company said the planned building will include rooftop solar panel infrastructure.

MRSGI currently operates 84 branches across Luzon and the Visayas under the Metro Supermarket, Metro Department Store, Super Metro Hypermarket, Metro Value Mart, and Metro Home Improvement and Lifestyle formats.