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If you have spent any time scrolling through social media lately, you have likely seen those small, colourful designer figures sitting on people’s office desks or hanging from their bags. Collecting these "blind boxes" has become a serious hobby for many Filipinos, but tracking them down usually meant visiting temporary stalls or ordering online. That has officially changed.
Pop Mart opened its first-ever permanent flagship store in the Philippines on Friday! Located at Level 2, Building A, SM Megamall, this shop replaces the temporary pop-up booths we have seen previously in other malls like SM Mall of Asia and SM North Edsa.
Image credit: POP MART PH | Facebook
The new flagship is a much bigger deal than the small pop-up booths we usually see. Since it is a permanent shop, it carries a lot more stock and a wider variety of items. You can find exclusive drops and limited-edition figures that are usually hard to track down. The shelves are full of fan favourites like Labubu, Skullpanda, and Hirono. If you are heading to the mall, you can also check out the 40-foot Pop Mart Christmas tree at the Mega Fashion Hall, which will stay there until 11 January.
Image credit: POP MART PH | Facebook
The store’s opening weekend was headlined by a visit from Lang, the artist behind the famous Hirono series. While the exclusive fan signing event wrapped up this past Sunday, 21 December, the excitement hasn't slowed down.
Image credit: POP MART PH | Facebook
Collectors who missed the signing can still find the latest Hirono releases in-store, though stock for the specific "anniversary" or "limited" series featured during the event is expected to move fast. If you’re a fan of the character, keep an eye on the shelves for any remaining event-exclusive merchandise.
Also read: Hirono Brings an Abandoned Chinese Village Back to Life in POP MART’s Fantasy World
Image credit: POP MART PH | Facebook
Since it is the busiest week of the year, SM Megamall has extended its hours to help you beat the rush. On 22 and 23 December, the mall is staying open until midnight. If you are planning a trip on Christmas Eve, be aware that the mall will close early at 7 p.m.
Since the store is now permanent, you do not have to rush all at once. However, if you are looking for specific limited-edition releases, you should aim to arrive early during mall hours!
Image credit: POP MART PH | Facebook
To check if a specific character like Labubu or Skullpanda is in stock before you make the trip, you can follow their official Instagram at @popmart_phl. They use their stories to announce restocks and new arrivals.
The arrival of a permanent Pop Mart flagship in SM Megamall makes it much easier for Filipino collectors to find their favourite characters without relying on resellers. It is a practical addition to the mall for anyone looking for gifts or a new hobby.
Featured image credit: POP MART PH | Facebook
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