Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Main Character Meals: Kain Lokal Arrives at SM City Baliwag

Good food hits different when it’s local—and Kain Lokal at SM City Baliwag is such a perfect example. This homegrown food spot lauds Filipino flavors we all know and love, cooked with heart, heritage, and a whole lot of sarap.

From comforting classics to bold, modern takes on local favorites, Kain Lokal is all about big flavors at just-right prices. The menu they serve, such as silog, pares, unli rice, and unli kape, brings back memories, and the next makes you say, “Balik us here.”

Perfect for quick lunches, food trips, or merienda breaks, Kain Lokal is more than a meal—it’s a tribute to Filipino taste and community. Supporting local never tasted this good.
Visit Kain Lokal located at SM City Baliwag Central Terminal! Come hungry. Leave happy. Eat local.

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Discover What’s New for Your Next Gala at SM City San Mateo



A fresh lineup of newly-opened shops has arrived at SM City San Mateo, giving mallgoers even more reasons to drop by, dine out, and enjoy their everyday gala. From comforting Filipino favorites to satisfying ramen bowls, quick coffee breaks, freshly baked treats, and wellness essentials, these new mall finds bring variety, flavor, and convenience for families, friends, and solo mall explorers alike.




SM City San Mateo welcomes a fresh mix of dining spots that satisfy both comfort cravings and quick bites. Japanese and Korean food lovers can enjoy rich, slurp-worthy bowls at Saiko Restaurant’s ramen bar, while Sisig Hooray serves its signature sizzling sisig—savory, filling, and perfect for lunch or dinner. For those needing a quick pick-me-up, Block Coffee offers quality coffee and refreshing drinks ideal for on-the-go mall breaks.


Completing the experience are everyday essentials that add convenience to every visit. Bulawan Panaderya fills the mall with the inviting aroma of freshly baked breads and classic Filipino pastries, perfect for take-home treats. Katinko rounds out the lineup with trusted wellness and pain-relief products, making self-care easy and accessible right inside the mall.


With these new shops, SM City San Mateo continues to be a one-stop destination where dining, daily needs, and comfort come together. From satisfying food trips to quick coffee stops and wellness must-haves, it’s all here—ready for you to gala to the max and enjoy truly all-out experiences every time you visit. 











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Gala-Worthy Cravings Now Served at SM City Masinag


A go-to spot for food trips and everyday gala, SM City Masinag continues to be the most-preferred food destination in lower Antipolo, now made even better with new dining additions that fit every kind of mall visit. From quick sweet treats to satisfying comfort meals, these new spots give you more reasons to stay longer and enjoy the day.


Perfect for sweet cravings on the go, Conti’s arrives at SM City Masinag, offering its well-loved cakes and pastries. Whether you’re picking up a dessert for home or rewarding yourself mid-gala, it’s an easy stop for classic Conti’s favorites—no sit-down required.


For casual dining that works for any kind of catch-up, Shakey’s serves its iconic pizzas, mojos, and comfort food staples. It’s ideal for barkada hangouts, family meals, or a relaxed break between errands while you continue exploring the mall.


Adding a fun local favorite is Taho Story, a kiosk that puts a playful spin on the Filipino classic. Enjoy soft taho paired with ice cream and other sweet toppings—perfect for a quick merienda or a light treat while strolling around the mall.


Rounding out the lineup is Kyu Kyu Ramen 99, serving warm and satisfying Japanese bowls with rich flavors. It’s a great stop when you’re craving something filling before heading back out to continue your gala.


With these new food stops, SM City Masinag reinforces its position as a vibrant dining hub in lower Antipolo—where shoppers can enjoy a mix of sit-down meals and on-the-go treats. Head to SM City Masinag and discover new food favorites on your next gala.



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Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Asia’s Biggest ACE Store Opens at Baliwag, Bulacan


A new benchmark in home and building retail is set to begin as ACE Builders opens its largest store in Asia at SM City Baliwag. Covering over 6,000 square meters, this newest branch is the most expansive ACE store to date, offering a wide and complete range of construction supplies, home improvement products, and lifestyle essentials—all under one roof.

  Designed for both homeowners and professionals, ACE Builders SM City Baliwag combines scale, selection, and service to provide a shopping experience tailored to real, everyday needs.

Everything You Need, All in One Place
ACE Builders SM City Baliwag carries an extensive lineup of trusted and reliable products across major categories:
 Tiles&Flooring
 Wall Cladding
 Sanitary Wares and Plumbing
 Paint and Paint Accessories
 Electrical
 Lawn and Garden
 Home Hardware
 Small Appliances
 Hand and Power Tools
 Automotive Products
 Chemicals and Cleaning Solutions
 Pet Care Essentials
 Home Basics and Storage

From major renovation projects to simple home upgrades, the store is designed to meet the demands of modern Filipino households, contractors, and construction professionals alike.

Strengthening a Growing Network
ACE Builders SM City Baliwag joins other flagship stores in the ACE Builders network, including ACE Builders North EDSA, Fairview, and Pampanga. With the opening of its biggest location yet, ACE continues to expand its reach and improve accessibility to high-quality building materials and home solutions.

Since opening its first store in 1997 at SM Southmall, Las Piñas, ACE Hardware Philippines has grown into one of the country’s leading hardware chains, with 238 branches nationwide. The ACE Builders concept was introduced to provide a more comprehensive offering for customers needing larger-scale or more specialized products for construction and home projects.
With expert assistance from in-store staff, a wide product assortment, and a convenient location at SM City Baliwag, this store is set to become a key destination for building, improving, and upgrading living spaces in Bulacan and neighboring areas.

To find your nearest ACE Hardware or ACE Builders location, visit our store locator here.

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SM Morning Beats&Brews Brings the Vibes to Bulacan
SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag just turned mornings into a vibe as the malls brought together curated music, excellent coffee, and feel-good morning energy with the launch of Morning Beats & Brews.
            

Created for early risers, creatives, and culture lovers, Morning Beats&Brews delivers sounds paired with quality brews to set the tone for a productive and inspired day.

At SM City Marilao, a crowd of coffee fans gather at Cong Caphe and disco to the beat of music, with DJ Wency providing a lively yet laid-back atmosphere.
Meanwhile, SM City Baliwag, in partnership with The Coffee Bean&Tea Leaf, treats the crowd with a great dose of coffee to the tune of upbeat sounds by DJ Melvin.

More than just a morning routine, Morning Beats&Brews is a vibe designed to connect people through rhythm and flavor. Moments like these make SM Bulacan malls the “Home of Everyday Celebrations.”

Stay tuned as more vibin’ events will unveil your way in 2026. For updates, check out the official Facebook pages of SM City Marilao, SM City Baliwag, and SM Center Pulilan.


 
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Monday, January 26, 2026

SIP&WIN AT SM


For coffee lovers, mornings are sacred, and at SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan, that daily ritual now comes with an exciting reward and rewarding twist.

Following the success of Morning Beats and Brews, SM brings back the spotlight on café culture with the Sip&Win Promo, a campaign created for those who see coffee not just as a beverage, but as part of their lifestyle.

From handcrafted brews to comforting everyday favorites, every coffee break now comes with the chance to win. Shoppers earn one (1) e-raffle entry for every ₱500 worth of single or accumulated purchases from participating tenants. Each sip brings you closer to winning a Suzuki S-Presso GL MT, turning ordinary coffee runs into something truly memorable.

Running until April 10, the Sip & Win Promo invites caffeine enthusiasts to slow down, discover new café favorites, and enjoy the vibrant coffee scene across SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan. Whether you prefer a bold espresso, a creamy latte, or an iced pick-me-up, your coffee moments could lead to a rewarding surprise.

Because at SM, coffee is more than part of your routine. It is an experience worth savoring and celebrating. Visit SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan today!

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EASY PACKING HACKS YOU’LL LOVE AT SM

If there’s one thing quietly taking over 2026 vision boards, it’s travel. The kind that comes with stamped passports, airport selfies, and stories you’ll retell for years. But before the dream trip comes the real challenge: packing without the panic. The fear of forgetting something important or bringing too much is real. Good news: SM just made packing feel less like a chore and more like part of the adventure.

Here is a smarter, stress-free way to pack, curated with travel essentials you can easily find at SM.

Keep Your Must-Haves Organized
Your trip does not begin without documents. Passport, visa, boarding pass, travel insurance, and accommodation details should be kept together. A water-resistant envelope from SM Stationery or National Bookstore keeps everything safe, organized, and easy to reach. Bonus points if you save digital copies on your phone too.

Comfort Is the Real Luxury
Long flights can be unforgiving. A flexible travel pillow from Miniso helps prevent stiff necks and awkward sleeping positions. Add an eye mask and suddenly economy seating feels a little more first class.

Mix, Match, Repeat

Overpacking is the fastest way to excess baggage fees. The trick is choosing clothes that work together. Think classic jeans from Levi’s paired with a white top from Uniqlo. Stick to basics, bring extra innerwear in neutral colors, and leave space for shopping finds.

One Shoe Rule

Wear your most versatile pair on travel day. Neutral sneakers from Hush Puppies work with almost any outfit. Pack lightweight slippers from Havaianas for beach days, hotel walks, or quick errands.

Downsize Your Toiletries

Everything should be travel-size. Transfer your essentials into compact containers from Beabi. Shampoo, skincare, hygiene items, and grooming tools all fit better when they are streamlined and leak-proof.

Skincare and Makeup, But Smarter
Looking good helps you feel confident on the go. Sunscreen and lip balm from Watsons are musts. Add lightweight makeup essentials like skin tint, blush, and setting spray for quick touch-ups without the heavy kit.

Always Be Weather-Ready

Rain or shine, a foldable umbrella from The SM Store belongs in your bag. It is one of those items you never regret bringing.

Prepare for the Unexpected
Pack basic medicines for headaches, motion sickness, allergies, and stomach issues. A small first-aid kit from Watsons can be a trip saver when emergencies pop up.

Power Up Anywhere

Different countries mean different sockets. A universal adapter from Ace Hardware solves that problem instantly. Add a power bank, extra cables, and a mini fan so your devices and your patience never run out.


Pack It All in Style

All these essentials deserve luggage that looks good and lasts long. Find sturdy, aesthetic options at The SM Store in SM City Grand Central and SM City Valenzuela.

Packing does not have to feel overwhelming. With thoughtful choices and reliable essentials from SM, you can focus less on what you forgot and more on the experience waiting for you. For more travel inspiration and practical tips, follow SM City Grand Central, SM City Valenzuela, and SM Center Sangandaan on Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Saturday, January 24, 2026

GLoan makes borrowing worry-free with free health and loan insurance, giving borrowers extra protection
(L-R) Mynt group head of new businesses Winsley Bangit, Oona Insurance Corporation founder and CEO Abhisek Bhatia, Fuse Financing Inc. president and CEO Tony Isidro, and Oona Insurance Corporation president Ninoy Rollan




Fuse Financing Inc. (Fuse), the lending arm of GCash, is now giving free insurance coverage to GLoan borrowers with GLoan Protect. Available for a limited time, this newest feature provides borrowers with free loan and health insurance for every GLoan disbursement worth a minimum of P500, underwritten by Oona Insurance Corporation. This free insurance will waive pending loan balance in case of sudden customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, and provide resources to recover from medical emergencies.

Life and health emergencies can strike unexpectedly. For many Filipinos, sudden medical expenses or unexpected urgent costs can quickly lead to financial distress. Hospitalization and medical costs often result in heavy debt, while the lack of insurance leaves families with limited options to recover financially. 

“Oftentimes, Filipinos don’t think of insurance until it’s too late,” said Tony Isidro, president and CEO of Fuse Financing Inc., the lending arm of GCash. “With the free insurance, we’re making sure that every time someone gets a GLoan, they also get a safety net. It’s our way of helping users feel more secure and protected without them having to spend extra.”
By integrating protection into GLoan, GCash—through Fuse and GInsure, the digital insurance platform of GCash with inclusive insurance products across 11 categories including health, life, accident, travel, vehicle, and more —offers borrowers added peace of mind and a safety net against life’s uncertainties.

Under GLoan Protect, the free health insurance covers a hospitalization allowance given to all eligible users who avail of a GLoan worth a minimum amount of P500 moving forward. Users can claim a minimum of P500 or up to 10% of the total loan value when they get confined in the hospital for a minimum stay of 3 days. 

The loan insurance benefit is automatically activated once a customer receives their loan proceeds from GLoan, and coverage remains constant and valid until the end of the loan term even when the customer fully pays off their loan earlier than the loan’s due date. In case of customer demise or accident-related permanent disability, beneficiaries will receive the remaining loan value, and the remaining balance will be waived and settled. 

The policy will automatically appear in the GInsure dashboard, making the process simple and familiar for borrowers. Claims can be filed through the same steps used for other GInsure products.

“We see this synergy between Fuse and GInsure as part of our mission to reimagine what finance can do for every Filipino,” said Winsley Bangit, group head of new businesses at Mynt, the parent company of GCash. “By combining credit and insurance on a single service, we’re pushing the boundaries of digital innovation to give Filipinos not just access to funding, but also the protection they deserve. It’s another step toward building a more inclusive and resilient financial ecosystem.”

GCash made this initiative possible in partnership with Oona Insurance Corporation, a wholly-owned company by Oona Philippines Holdings Corporation (OPHC), actively expanding into health and digital-first solutions that meet the needs of today’s consumers. Through this partnership, GCash is bringing essential protection to more Filipinos by integrating coverage directly into its widely used digital services. 

"Our mission at Oona is to make protection part of everyday life, not something out of reach. Partnering with Fuse and GCash shows how insurance can be embedded seamlessly into the financial services people already use, from borrowing to everyday transactions. By making coverage automatic and effortless, we take an important step toward closing the protection gap and ensuring more Filipinos have the security to move forward with confidence.” said Abhishek Bhatia, founder and CEO of Oona Insurance.

This added benefit strengthens GLoan’s role as more than just a lending option. It becomes a tool that provides quick access to funds and supports Filipinos in building resilience against emergencies. 

“This is about giving our users peace of mind,” Isidro said. “When someone takes out a loan, they’re usually thinking about solving an immediate need. By adding free insurance, we’re also helping them prepare for the unexpected. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in protecting families from unforeseen circumstances,” Isidro concluded. 
Through this enhanced offering, GCash continues to push its mission of financial inclusion — ensuring more Filipinos have access to services that can improve their financial security in both the short and long term.

GLoan Protect is now available to new GLoan transactions for a limited time starting on January 16 until March 31, 2026. Borrowers should be Filipino citizens, aged 21-65, fully-verified GCash users with a minimum loan approved and disbursed amount of PHP 500, and at least one month loan tenor. 
For more information about GLoan and its free insurance benefit, please visit https://help.gcash.com.

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Savings That Slap: Julia Barretto&Maris Racal on What It Feels Like to Save with Maya

 
Saving money usually feels quiet and delayed. You set aside funds and trust that it’ll matter someday. But when nothing feels different right away, it’s easy to forget or stop altogether.

That’s exactly what Maya, the #1 Digital Bank and leading all-in-one fintech platform in the Philippines, is calling out in its latest video starring Julia Barretto and Maris Racal. It’s a wake-up call for Filipinos: your savings can reward you daily — if you put it where it earns.

The Filipino Dream: ‘Masampal ng Pera”
Let’s be real: every Filipino has joked about it at least once. “Sana masampal ng pera.” Not out of drama, but out of desire. Because money hitting you means money finally showing up.

Maya taps into that very Filipino fantasy and brings it to life through a playful sampalan. In the video, Julia and Maris literally slap each other with money, turning a familiar pop-culture moment into a metaphor for what daily interest feels like when your savings is actually working.

Watch what went down in the sampalan showdown of Maris and Julia here: 



A ‘Sampal’ You’ll Actually Want Every Day
Instead of progress you only notice months later, Maya Savings makes growth immediate. With interest credited daily, your money doesn’t just sit there, it moves consistently and visibly.

That’s the real sampal. Not the painful kind, but the moment you realize your balance is growing day after day. Saving stops feeling passive and starts feeling rewarding, because something is actually happening.


Saving That Hits Different

Julia and Maris show that saving doesn’t have to feel heavy, complicated, or purely long-term. It can be fun, rewarding, and culturally familiar, the kind of saving that slaps, literally and figuratively.

With Maya Savings, users can earn up to 15% interest per annum, credited daily. That daily payout turns saving from something you wait on into something you feel, as your balance grows every day just by using Maya for your everyday transactions.

Once saving feels rewarding, it’s easier to keep going.  And for today’s savers, waiting for “someday” isn’t motivating anymore. They want results they can see — and feel — today.

Visit maya.ph or mayabank.ph, and follow @mayaiseverything on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok to stay updated. Maya Philippines, Inc. and Maya Bank, Inc. are regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are insured by PDIC up to ₱1 million per depositor. 


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New Reasons to Gala and Dine at SM Center Antipolo Downtown




Food lovers in Antipolo have more reasons to linger, explore, and indulge as SM Center Antipolo Downtown welcomes three exciting new food tenants, each offering a distinct experience that turns everyday mall visits into flavorful adventures. 



From artisanal coffee with a playful twist to beloved Filipino favorites hot off the grill and oven, these new dining spots invite everyone to eat, sip, and savor.



At SM Center Antipolo Downtown, foodies can explore a mix of flavors and experiences, from Block Coffee on the 2nd Level, a quirky tuktuk-inspired café serving bold espressos, creamy lattes, and refreshing iced drinks, to Bacolod Chicken Inasal on the Ground Level, offering smoky, juicy, flame-grilled chicken and Negrense cuisine that’s perfect for family meals or quick comfort food, and Bulawan Panaderya, a local-style bakery filling the mall with the aroma of freshly baked breads and pastries ideal for merienda, pasalubong, or simple everyday treats.


With the arrival of Block Coffee, Bacolod Chicken Inasal, and Bulawan Panaderya, SM Center Antipolo Downtown continues to grow as a must-visit food destination in the Antipolo City. Together, these new spots add more flavor to every mall visit.


Drop by, explore these new eats, and make your next mall visit a delicious discovery. Come hungry, take your time, and enjoy every stop at SM Center Antipolo Downtown.

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Wednesday, January 21, 2026

TCL Displays the Future of Visual Technologies and Intelligent Living with Groundbreaking Products and Solutions at CES 2026

  

 

 

Las Vegas, January 6, 2026 — TCL, a global leader in consumer electronics and the world’s No. 1 Mini LED and ultra-large TV brand, today unveils a new generation of visual technology breakthroughs and AI-powered products at CES 2026. This year, TCL introduces a series of world-first display panels, display technologies, and products, along with a full portfolio of intelligent devices designed to elevate smart living, immersive entertainment, and productivity.

 

A Glimpse into the Future of Displays

TCL continues to push the boundaries of display technologies that span all screen sizes, from large to small. At its CES 2026 showcase, TCL marks the global debut of its SQD-Mini LED Technology, representing a revolutionary leap in Mini LED performance. By transforming the local dimming zone of conventional Mini LEDs into Precise Dimming Series, it enables precise light control across the entire screen and delivers exceptional performance in both highlights and shadows. It also incorporates TCL's industry-leading Super QLED technology and an Ultra Color Filter Panel, achieving a longer service life, better color performance, and higher peak brightness. Furthermore, it offers a more stable global high color gamut, more precise light control, and a more refined appearance.

 

Also showcased is the world’s first TV powered by SQD-Mini LED technology – the TCL X11L. The TV achieves up to 100% BT.2020 All-Scene Wide Color Gamut and features CSOT’s WHVA 2.0 Ultra Panel for better color performance, higher native contrast and sharper picture quality. With up to 20,736 precise dimming zones and up to 10,000 nits, HDR content appears vivid and lifelike on this TV. The X11L also stands out with a sleek, nearly 2 cm-thinner and Virtually ZeroBorder design. For audio, it features Audio by Bang & Olufsen, offering a premium sound experience.

 

 

TCL’s collaborations with Gemini integration for Google TV and Dolby Vision 2 brings exciting upgrades to display experiences at CES 2026. Building on last year’s debut of the first “Always On” Google TV with Gemini, this year’s models will add even more intuitive ways to interact with your TV, including enhanced Google Photos search, new creative features with Nano Banana and Veo, and more. TCL also demonstrated Dolby Vision 2, the next generation of Dolby Vision, designed to deliver exceptional visual experiences through Content Intelligence, cinematic detail, and viewing environment awareness. Dolby Vision 2 is planned to be rolled out to TCL’s X and C TV lineups in 2026 via OTA updates.

 

In eye-care technology, the TCL NXTPAPER 70 Pro smartphone, powered by NXTPAPER 4.0, delivers all-day eye comfort across all scenarios to ease eye strain in today's fast-paced digital environment. It's dedicated NXTPAPER Key enables seamless switching between three distinct viewing modes. Expanding its eye-care ecosystem, the TCL Note A1 NXTPAPER eNote tablet integrates AI-driven productivity tools with a paper-like reading and writing experience ideal for users seeking a more focused and efficient digital workspace. Alongside commercial displays and high-performance monitors, TCL is also unveiling the RayNeo Air 4 Pro — the world’s first HDR10 AR glasses — redefining portable viewing with advanced display technology that delivers exceptional clarity and comfort for both work and entertainment.

 

Powering the Next Era of Intelligent Living

Beyond display technology, TCL presents a wide range of AI-powered smart home solutions designed to bring greater intelligence to everyday living. These include the TCL FreshIN 3.0 Air Conditioner, the GeniusFresh Refrigerator, the AmeraClassic washer and dryer series, and the TCL AI SuperDrum washer-dryer combo. In addition, TCL smart locks offer advanced biometric security, AI-driven access, and seamless smart home control, while TCL Smart Home Energy Solutions deliver an integrated and AI-driven energy ecosystem for modern households, offering end-to-end control of power conversion, battery, and energy management to reduce energy costs, enhance efficiency, and support a low-carbon lifestyle.

 

 

In entertainment, TCL leverages AI to elevate picture and sound quality, enable smarter interaction, and enhance content generation. The PlayCube Projector brings cinema-grade viewing to any environment, while TCL AiMe — the world’s first modular AI companion robot — introduces lifelike, adaptive interaction that brings a human touch to smart living.

 

In mobility and productivity, TCL expands intelligence across smartphones, eNote tablets, and more. The TCL Human × Vehicle × Home Cross‑Scenario Solution enables seamless integration between the vehicle and home ecosystems. TCL 5G Mobile WiFi P50, featuring the industry's first 5G mmWave mobile Wi‑Fi with both fast and wireless charging, delivers an ultra‑convenient connectivity experience for on‑the‑go users.

 

Pioneering Partnerships that Are Shaping the Future Home

At CES 2026, TCL is also redefining the future of home design with TCL NXTHOMETM, which brings together smart home solutions, lifestyle appliances, and premium collaborations with brands including Bang & Olufsen, BMW Group Designworks Shanghai Studio and Alcantara. Also in the home, TCL ECORA™, developed in collaboration with Chris Lefteri Design, is a new sustainable material made from recycled porcelain ceramics that combines high-performance technology with eco-conscious design.

 

 

TCL’s commitment to innovation in display technology, AI, and sustainability is shaping a smarter, more efficient future for all. As the company continues to break new ground, its technologies are not only transforming homes, but also enhancing the way people live, work, and connect – paving the way for a more intelligent tomorrow.

 

To discover the latest TCL products and innovations, visit TCL at CES 2026:

 

TCL CES 2026 Booth:

●        Date: January 6 to 9, 2026

●        Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall, Booth #18604

 

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