Philippine International Convention Center - PICC

In this brightest of seasons, may you find many reasons to be joyful and grateful.

Happy holidays from the PICC!

The Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives (PCAAE) held its 11th Associations Summit today at the Jose Palma Hall of the PICC with the theme “Associations in the Digital Age: AI, Technology, Operational Efficiency, and Sustainability.”

Tourism Promotions Board Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Nograles was the keynote speaker for the summit.

The PCAAE facilitates the work of association executives in effectively overseeing their organizations. It strives to advance their profession through initiatives focused on knowledge delivery, recognition, and collaboration initiatives.

During this year's 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) from November 25 to December 12, the PICC actively engaged its employees and guests with initiatives designed to heighten awareness about the anti-VAW movement. These efforts included several activities:

1. Illuminating the PICC Façade and the National Cultural Treasure Anito as part of the 'Orange Your Icon' initiative.
2. Encouraging the wearing of orange advocacy shirts or accessories on two designated Wednesdays.
3. Disseminating campaign-related content across PICC's digital platforms.
4. Showcasing the Prayer for Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) victim-survivors and PCW advocacy songs on the company's PA system.
5. Distributing informative brochures about Republic Act 11313 (the Safe Spaces Act) among both employees and contracted service personnel.

Even after the campaign's conclusion, the PICC remains dedicated and actively supportive of the anti-VAW movement, continuing its commitment to increasing awareness and advocating for the eradication of violence against women.

The world-renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers proudly presents its special Christmas offering entitled ChrisMadzaya! (Paskong Kakaiba sa Aming Sesenta!) at the Jose Rizal Hall of the PICC on December 16 and 17, 2023.

Under the direction of choirmaster Mark Anthony A. Carpio, ChrisMadzaya! will
showcase an enchanting all-Christmas repertoire.

The concert is part of intenSIXTY, the choir’s 60th Anniversary Celebration.

For tickets, visit https://premier.ticketworld.com.ph/shows/show.aspx?sh=MADZAYA23&fbclid=IwAR1FUS0mdv74Sy-22BaOVhIdeycC47B5iYnLtKP6p6-M0SvKf-kS1r1tnNQ

The Philippine Space Agency officially launched their first-ever children’s book entitled “Si Tala at ang Kanyang Lakbay Kalawakan!” at the Ocampo, Joya, and Abueva Halls of the PICC on December 6. The initiative aims to educate elementary school children about the United Nations' treaties concerning outer space.

Authored by Patrick Mansujeto and illustrated by Ara Villena, the book serves as an introduction to space policy, law, and diplomacy on space science and technology applications (SSTA). Through the adventures of Tala, a curious child equipped with a spaceship, young readers embark on a celestial journey while exploring the Philippines' space adventure.

During the event, elementary school children Kyrie Sanchez and Juan Magiting de la Cruz conducted a live reading of the book. Accompanied by Mr. Joseph Gutierrez from PhilSA, their book reading brought Tala’s space odyssey to life.

PhilSA hopes that this book will serve as inspiration for the next generation of Filipino leaders to consider pursuing interests in the field of space exploration.

The Philippine Dental Association – Luzon Convention Plus 2023 was successfully held at the PICC from December 1 to 4, 2023. Over 1,500 dentists attended the convention, furthering the association’s mission of advancing dental education and fostering camaraderie among its members.

The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) held its Ease of Doing Business (EODB) Convention at the PICC from November 29 to December 1, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to streamline government services per Republic Act 11032.

The convention, themed 'Government for Juan: From Policies to Progress,' united stakeholders across sectors to present streamlined and digital solutions, enhancing service delivery.

Let the harmonious voices of the Philippine Madrigal singers fill your hearts with the magic of the holiday season as they perform at the PICC’s Jose Rizal Hall on December 16 and 17 in a concert entitled “ChrisMADZsaya! Paskong Kakaiba sa Aming Sesenta!”

For ticket inquiries and reservations, message Ms Odette Galura through Viber at +639497941313.

It’s the happiest season of all! 🎄🎄🎄

Catch our upcoming shows this Holiday Season!

The PICC participates once again in the nationwide 18-day Campaign to End Violence Against Women (VAW) from November 25 to December 12, 2023, with the theme "UNiTEd for a VAW-free Philippines."

The campaign is spearheaded by the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), with the aim of raising awareness on the anti-VAW movement.

During the 18-day campaign period, PICC will undertake various activities to engage its employees and guests. These will include active participation in the 'Orange Your Icon' initiative, display of advocacy materials produced by PCW and PICC within the premises, wearing the orange advocacy shirt or accessories on two Wednesdays, sharing campaign-related content on PICC's digital assets, participating in online campaign discussions, featuring the Prayer for Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) victim-survivors and PCW advocacy songs on the company's PA system, and distributing brochures about Republic Act 11313 (the Safe Spaces Act) among employees and contracted service personnel.

The 71st Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature took place at the Jose Rizal Hall of the PICC on November 27.

54 winners were given awards in 20 writing categories in four divisions: Kabataan, English, Filipino, and Regional Languages.

Named after businessman and philanthropist Don Carlos Palanca Sr. and sponsored by the Carlos Palanca Foundation Inc., it stands as the nation's longest-running and most prestigious literary competition. Since its establishment in 1951, the Palanca Awards has been dedicated to nurturing Philippine Literature while fostering education and culture.

A Palanca Award is considered as the gold standard in writing excellence and is highly coveted in the Filipino writing community here and abroad.

Congratulations to all the winners!

The 31st Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF 31) reached its successful conclusion yesterday at the Philippine International Convention Center.

The three-day conference, hosted by the Philippines and co-chaired by Senate President Juan Miguel F. Zubiri and House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, forged stronger connections among the participating nations. A total of 237 parliamentarians from 18 countries alongside their Filipino counterparts actively engaged in the annual meeting, fostering dialogue and collaboration.

Shown in photos are some of the events that took place within halls and meeting rooms of the PICC in the last three days.

captures the striking brutalist architecture of the PICC against the early evening sky, with the moon serving as its crowning glory.

The 31st Annual Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum in the Philippines (APPF) will be jointly hosted by the Senate of the Philippines and the House of Representatives from November 23 to 26, 2023, at the Philippine International Convention Center.

It has been almost three decades since the country first hosted the yearly gathering of parliamentary partners from Asia and the Pacific. Twenty-eight member countries will be attending this year’s forum.

Under the theme 'Resilient Partnerships for Peace, Prosperity, and Sustainability,' parliamentarians will convene to find solutions to challenges concerning peace, prosperity, and sustainability, while ensuring that women, the youth, and other vulnerable sectors are not left behind.

𝗪𝗘𝗟𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗘, 𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗙𝟯𝟭 𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗚𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦!

The Senate of the Philippines welcomes delegates to the 31st Annual Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF31) happening November 23 to 26, 2023.

Start your holiday shopping early as the International Bazaar 2023 opens today from 9am to 7 pm at the PICC Forum 2 and 3. The event is organized by the International Bazaar Foundation, Inc (IBF), in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Diplomatic and Consular Corps of the Philippines, and Spouses of the Heads of Mission (SHOM),

With 42 participants representing the Diplomatic and Consular Corps and 31 exhibitors from our esteemed Philippine Best, the bazaar showcases a diverse array of offerings encompassing food products, textiles, handicrafts, and various items. Participating countries this year include Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Georgia, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Korea, Laos, Lebanon, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Myanmar, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Pakistan, Palestine, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, Uruguay, USA, and Venezuela.

Entrance fee is P150 per person. All proceeds from this annual Bazaar will go to the various IBF and SHOM charity projects and programs that aim to uplift marginalized communities and extend educational opportunities to indigent scholars.

Today at the Plenary Hall, the GIRL SCOUTS OF THE PHILIPPINES hosted the Chief Girl Scout Medal Scheme Presentation Ceremony, acknowledging the exceptional accomplishments of 921 Awardees for the years 2022 and 2023.

Congratulations to all the awardees on this outstanding achievement!

The 45th Annual Convention of the Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases is scheduled to take place at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) from November 15 to 17, 2023. Themed "Evolving Healthcare: Advancing Infectious Diseases Practice," the convention will feature plenary sessions, convention symposia, and case-based discussions highlighting recent advancements in the field of infectious diseases.

To facilitate a smooth experience for convention delegates over the next three days, answers to frequently asked questions are provided below.

The 2023 Annual Convention and 77th Anniversary Celebration of the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society (POGS) is scheduled to take place at the PICC from November 7 to 10, 2023.

The convention will revolve around the theme "From Global Trends to Local Integration" and will encompass discussions on the various global trends in OB-GYN and their integration into the local healthcare setting. Diverse subspecialty and affiliate societies will also share insights into the latest trends within their respective fields.

This event marks POGS' first in-person convention post-pandemic. Visit https://pogsannualconvention.com/ for more information.

The Department of Health hosted the Healthy Pilipinas Awards for Partners today at the PICC Reception Hall. This recognition is presented to partners of the DOH Health Promotion Bureau who are actively involved in services linked to the three key areas of health promotion implementation: Healthy Governance, Health-Enhancing Environments, and Health Education.

The Department of Science and Technology invites everyone to the very first National Youth Science, Technology, and Innovation Festival (NYSTIF) from October 25 to 28, 2023, at the PICC Forum.

The NYSTIF aims to enhance the youth's understanding of science and technology while motivating them to explore career opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). This festival will serve as a platform for DOST and its affiliated agencies to present their accomplishments in the realm of science and technology, showcasing its impact on people's lives, livelihoods, and health, among other aspects. The event will feature a variety of activities, including a science journalism contest, exhibitions, forums, and seminars.

The festival's inauguration took place yesterday and was officially opened by Sen. Francis Tolentino, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum, Jr., Undersecretary for Scientific and Technological Services Dr. Maridon Sahagun, Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Her Excellency Hae Kyong Yu, Assistant Secretary for Administrative and Legal Affairs Dr. Diana Ignacio, and DOST-SEI Director Dr. Josette Biyo.

The Procurement Summit 2023, organized by the Government Procurement Policy Board-Technical Support Office (GPPB-TSO), provided its participants with a unique platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and exploring innovative strategies that can revolutionize and transform the procurement landscape. During the 2-day event at the PICC, exhibitors and vendors also presented an array of products and services designed to meet the needs of our national government.

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, DBM Undersecretaries Margaux V. Salcedo and Maria Francesca M. Del Rosario, Assistant Secretary Rolando U. Toledo, Mr. Dominic Aumentado, Senior Procurement Specialist from the World Bank, Atty. Dennis S. Santiago, the Executive Director of the Procurement Service-DBM, and members of the GPPB attended the commencement of the 2023 Procurement Summit yesterday.

27 groups from 18 different organizations volunteered at the Servathon 2023 last October 21 at the PICC Forum, coming together to support a common cause. The event was organized by Hands On Manila Foundation, Inc. (HOM), a non-profit that has been in operation since its establishment in August 2001.

HOM brings to the Philippines an “innovative and alternative model of volunteer service.” This model allows busy individuals to integrate volunteering into their daily schedules.

As HOM marked its 22nd year, the focus of Servathon 2023 was to celebrate volunteerism by making a difference in the lives of mothers and children suffering from severe malnutrition. With the theme, "STOP Stunting, START Thriving," volunteers’ activities included designing nursing covers, planting nutritious food and packing meals.

Congratulations to HOM and the participants of Servathon for continuing to promote the joy of volunteering and helping the community.

The International Bazaar Foundation, Inc. (IBF), in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Diplomatic and Consular Corps of the Philippines, and Spouses of the Heads of Mission (SHOM), will hold the much-awaited International Bazaar 2023 on Sunday, 19 November 2023, from 9:00am to 7:00pm at the PICC Forum Tents 2 and 3.

Now on its 57th year, IBF 2023 will have more than 42 countries and 28 Philippine Best exhibitors as participants. All proceeds will support IBF and SHOM charity projects.

Day 2 of the International Rice Congress at the PICC shone a spotlight on the extraordinary women driving innovation within the rice industry. Various scientific sessions were devoted to acknowledging and commemorating the invaluable efforts of women in advancing the rice sector, serving as a continuation of the celebration of the International Day of Rural Women. View the day's happenings here.

IRC 2023 Day 2 Highlights: Inclusion in innovation

"The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) stands as a triumph of architectural brilliance. Designed by the renowned Filipino architect Leandro Locsin, it is an embodiment of the principles of Brutalist architecture, characterized by its massive, concrete structures."

Thank you, Cali Architects!

The 6th International Rice Congress at the PICC starts today.

Thank you, Kanto !

The Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC) celebrated its 30th Anniversary at the PICC Forum on October 12, 2023. The event was a commemoration of three decades of training Public Safety practitioners who have contributed to safeguarding the nation.

Among the attendees were Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Atty. Benjamin Abalos Jr., Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., and PPSC President BGen. Ferdinando Sevilla (Ret.) MPSA.

Under the leadership of Chief Persida V. Rueda-Acosta, the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) hosted its 5th National Convention for Rank and File Employees from October 9 to 11, 2023, at the prestigious PICC Reception Hall. The convention had the theme, "Kabalikat at Kapangyarihan ng Katarungan Laban sa Kahirapan" (The Partner and Power of Justice Against Poverty).

This event marked the first in-person gathering for the office’s non-lawyer personnel post-pandemic. It was dedicated to capacity building, empowering individuals, and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among PAO employees all over the country.

"Daunting as it may seem, once you step inside it warmly welcomes you with bright lights, red carpets, and grand staircases. Then it hits you — this is the home for generations of Filipino stories.

It is a place where students receive their diplomas and professionals swear their oaths; a place where artists bare it all out on the stage, sharing their music, art, and performances passionately; where important conversations happen during international summits and conventions; where life is celebrated and intimate moments are made through weddings, anniversaries, and even religious gatherings."

Thank you for the feature, Vogue Philippines.

PICC Celebrates 47 Years By Sharing Its Stories The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) celebrates 47 years by sharing the stories of Andy Locsin Jr, Paolo Valenciano, and Jeremy Barns.

The PICC Delegation Building will be illuminated in vibrant blue from October 10-17, as we stand in solidarity with the Philippine Mental Health Association's 'Light Up Blue for Mental Health!' campaign. This year's theme, 'Mental Health is a Universal Right,' echoes the global message from the World Health Organization and the World Federation for Mental Health on World Mental Health Day 2023.

At PICC, we are committed to supporting our employees' mental well-being with activities throughout National Mental Health Month that focus on stress management and fostering workplace positivity.

The Philippines is the host country for the 10th International Conference on Coastal and Port Engineering in Developing Countries (COPEDEC), happening from October 9 to 13, 2023, at the PICC. This event is organized by the Permanent International Association of Navigation Congresses (PIANC) together with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

COPEDEC is an international forum facilitating the collaboration of engineers from developing nations, providing a dynamic environment for the exchange of experiences particularly on the development of waterborne transport infrastructure.

UNAHCO, Inc. treated their partners to a nostalgia-filled celebration during their 80s-themed Dealers Night. Celebrity artists lit up the stage of the PICC Reception Hall, taking guests back in time for an 80s dance party.

The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and the UN-Habitat Philippines held the Philippine Urban Forum at the PICC on October 5 and 6, 2023. Carrying the theme “Transforming our Cities & Building Resilient Communities,” the event is a serves as a platform for policymakers, knowledge sharing, and partnerships to drive sustainable urban development in the Philippines.

"The Philippine International Convention Center has witnessed five decades worth of history in its lifetime. From celebrating the personal stories of various Filipino generations to the visitation of local and foreign dignitaries, its halls and venues have been the site where great stories were unfurled. For many years, the PICC has evolved alongside the people who have been guests in it."

Thank you for the feature, BluPrint.

The PICC: Still A National Treasure Beyond Convention at 47 In its 47th year, the story of how PICC kept its grandeur is told from the perspective of 3 personalities who have experienced its growth.

Francine Diaz on MEGAStyle

Shot on location at the PICC
Photography by SHAIRA LUNA assisted by LANCE VON LUNA, and EMELITO LANSANGAN
Creative Direction by BRIE VENTURA and MIKA REYES
Additional Fashion Direction by RYUJI SHIOMITSU assisted by BITHIA REYES
Makeup by RB CHANCO
Hair by BRENT SALES
Styling Assistants CLYENAE SUAREZ and KLA DELA CRUZ
Sittings Editor PEACHES GARCIA
Shoot Coordination by KZ FRANCISO, ERICA LUNA, & MJ ALMERO
Brand Associate TYRA SANCHEZ
Videography by KIERAN PUNAY and KIM SANTOS of KLIQ INC.
Video Producer AUDREY SISON

Francine Diaz Dreams High on Cloud Nine Turning dreams into reality one step at a time, Francine Diaz graces the MEGAStyle cover with her head held high, but feet on the ground.

The Metro Manila International Christian Church held their Pacific Rim Missions Conference 2023 at the PICC from June 8 to 11, with the theme "Stand In Awe".