President Marcos has called for greater support for Filipino artists, stressing that through their creativity reflects the "very soul of our nation."

Marcos made the call as he led the reopening of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City on Tuesday, Sept. 30.

"As we reopen the doors of the PICC, let us also open ourselves to a greater challenge: to create, to imagine, and to contribute," Marcos said in his speech.

"Support our artists—our painters, our musicians, our performers. For in their creativity, we will find not only beauty, but the very soul of our nation. And beyond appreciation, let us take part in that creation ourselves," he added.

The President also said that "every act of creation—no matter how small—is an act of courage. It is an act of hope."

The PICC underwent a major renovation to prepare for its 50th anniversary and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit next year.

For its reopening, Marcos also encouraged the government and stakeholders to ensure that the PICC will remain "a testament to the artistry, ingenuity, and passion of the Filipino people."

"If the PICC has shown us anything, it is this: That creativity, when nurtured, endures. That artistry, when given space, inspires. And that every Filipino, no matter who or where they are, can bring light, meaning, and beauty to the world," he said.

In his speech, the Chief Executive honored the vision of his mother, former first lady Imelda Romualdez Marcos, and National Artist Leandro Locsin for the construction of PICC.

He also lauded First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos for spearheading the historic venue’s rehabilitation.

“Of course, we must express – I must express my deep gratitude to the First Lady, First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos. Because through her efforts—from providing free medical services through LAB for All, to breathing life into the Pasig River, and now, rehabilitation of the PICC—she has shown consistency, determination, and optimism,” Marcos said.

Marcos said that Locsin’s "magnum opus” has been restored with care and skill.

“Its sharp brutalist lines now meet softer tones and warmer light—reminding us that even in strength, we must include grace. Even in grandeur, the Filipino warmth and hospitality must shine through," he said.

He further said that the renovation of the PICC sought to strike a balance to honor history, while meeting the demands of the future.

“And so, we have equipped this architectural marvel with new technologies so it can deliver the very best for our people,” Marcos said.

From state-of-the-art audio-visual systems to energy-efficient lighting, from complex-wide high-speed Wi-Fi to enhanced security—the PICC is a venue that will serve both domestic and global needs, said the President.

The PICC was temporarily closed last March for a major renovation in preparation for its 50th anniversary and the Philippines' hosting of the 2026 ASEAN Summit.

PICC formally opened on Sept. 5, 1976 to host the IMF-World Bank meeting in Manila. Designed by the late National Artist Leandro Locsin, the building is widely considered as an architectural marvel and a national cultural treasure.