MANILA, Philippines — More than just a shopping haven, ALI X will build a community of art aficionados, hobbyists, and collectors in Cubao, Quezon City.

Rowell Recinto, senior management consultant of Araneta Center, said they opened ALI X to give a home for artists and hobbyists

“Quezon City is known for collectors and artists, so we decided to give them a home not only exhibit their goods but also interact with the hobbyists,” Recinto told reporters after the opening of ALI X in Ali Mall, Cubao.

“It is not just a simple buyer-seller relationship with the customers, it is more of a community than a regular sale, and we provided a venue for them [artists],” he added.

ALI X (Arts, Lifestyle, Interests, and Experience) recently opened at the upper ground floor of Ali Mall.

The newly opened wing featured several stores selling collectors’ items such as vinyl records, unique coins, paintings, musical instruments, and antiques.

ALI X also opened a cafe for art enthusiasts and a club offering karate lessons.

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Since Cubao is known as a haven for artists, Recinto said they will add more stores that would celebrate art and creativity.

“Aside from collections, magkakaroon pa kami ng other hobbies (we will add other hobbies). Some will involve with art,” he said.

Recinto also invited Filipinos and tourists to visit the heritage-rich venue for artists and hobbyists.

“If you are looking for something unique and interesting, heritage and legacy-based [which] gives connections to your mamas and papas, lolos and titas, come to Ali Mall and specifically to Ali X,” Recinto said. /ee