A true gem of a building, the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) is a true masterpiece. Designed by National Artist for Architecture Leandro Locsin, it boasts a brutalist charm with its exposed concrete, strong lines, and play on angles. When it opened on Sept. 5, 1976, it not only became a beacon of Filipino culture but also put the Philippines in the international spotlight, being touted as Asia’s first international convention center.

The world’s gaze turned to the archipelago as it hosted numerous international events—from the 1976 IMF–World Bank Annual Meeting (its very first event) to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders’ meetings, and even the Miss Universe pageant in 1994.

Through the years, the PICC underwent several renovations and refurbishments. More recently, this year, it temporarily closed its doors in March. After months of work, the PICC, a National Cultural Treasure, reopens with a look that weaves heritage and innovation.

There to witness the unveiling on Sept. 30, 2025, were President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, led by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor and PICC Chairman of the Board Eli M. Remolona Jr., together with PICC General Manager Nicolette Ann P. Cruz.

“The renovation of the PICC was meant to preserve a landmark of Filipino ingenuity,” said Governor Remolona. “For nearly 50 years, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has been entrusted with the stewardship of this institution, ensuring it remains a world-class venue that honors Filipino heritage and hosts international events.”

“The reopening celebrates a space where tradition meets modernization. From curated art pieces to upgraded meeting rooms and facilities, every detail is intended to elevate the guest experience while honoring the building’s architectural integrity,” general manager Cruz said. “As one of the most visited National Cultural Treasures, the PICC is now more than ready to again showcase the Philippines on the global stage.”

Manila Bulletin got to tour the refurbished spaces of the PICC. Part of the renovation process was the restoration of its front lawn to the original 1976 design. The lobby got a refreshed look with repaired marble flooring, laser-cleaned concrete walls, 3,608 restored droplights, and hand-painted metallic ceilings.

The Delegation Lounge is upgraded with refined finishes, discreet security features, and distinctly Filipino design touches for an elegant and distinguished setting. While its Meeting Rooms on the 3rd and 4th floors are now equipped with LED screens.

The Secretariat Building got an upgraded lobby and entrance, with its staircases laser-cleaned. Its meeting rooms have also been revamped with LED walls, contrasting its re-varnished wooden lattice walls and carpets.

The Executive Lounge now resembles a curated exhibit with masterpieces by great Filipino artists hung on the walls and displayed in its corners, many of which are from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas collection.

The Plenary Hall features updated ceilings, wood panels, doors, and seating with new brass hardware. Meanwhile, the Reception Hall sparkles with over 6,000 polished globule chandeliers, ornamented ceilings, refurbished fabric walls, and refinished woodwork.

Outside, the Courtyard has been restored to its 1976 charm, with pebble wash flooring, restored ponds, and improved landscaping. It is also equipped with new infinity waterfalls, modern lighting, and a 30-speaker audio system, and it serves as the space for the APEC sculptures.

The restoration comes ahead of the PICC’s 50th anniversary and the country’s hosting of the ASEAN Summit, both in 2026. But for President Marcos Jr., the refreshed PICC is not only for the grand events that make the news, but also for the milestones of Filipinos today and the generations to come.

“What makes the PICC truly special is not only the big moments that made the headlines. It is also the small ones—more personal moments. The ones that never made the front page but stayed forever in the hearts of the Filipinos,” the President said. “How many parents shed tears of joy as they watched their children receive their diplomas here? How many young professionals stood tall on this stage to swear their oaths, carrying with them both pride and responsibility? How many artist poured their hearts out in music, dance, painting, and performances within these walls, only to find that the audience gave them something greater in return—appreciation, encouragement, love? How many couples began their journey together as husbands and wives while friends and families filled this space with laughter and tears of joy? These are the memories that give life to the PICC. These are the stories that turn a whole concrete block into a home of the Filipino spirit. As we look ahead, we recognize the PICC as a symbol of Filipino resilience and creativity.”

Starting in October, the PICC is welcoming bookings for all kinds of gatherings: global conferences, conventions, meetings, graduation ceremonies, and personal milestones.

As it embarks on this new chapter, the PICC solidifies its place at the heart of Philippine history and culture and sets the stage for the future of the country’s meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry.