Words and images Philippine International Convention Center (PICC)
Editing The Kanto team
As it approaches its 50th anniversary in 2026, the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Asia’s first international convention center, is undergoing a comprehensive renovation. The goal is to restore its original 1976 design while upgrading facilities to meet the demands of global summits and events, including the Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN Summit in 2026.
The restoration and modernization effort, which began five months ago, aims to recover the architectural intent of its creator, National Artist for Architecture Leandro V. Locsin, while upgrading its systems to meet international standards in the growing Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. The PICC is scheduled to reopen in October 2025.
Restoring a Brutalist Landmark
Since opening its doors in 1976, the PICC has hosted global summits, state functions, and significant cultural performances. Its monumental architecture, defined by geometric massing, raw concrete finishes, and minimalist forms, is considered a defining example of Filipino brutalism.
As a National Cultural Treasure, key elements of Locsin’s design are being carefully restored, informed by conservation studies, expert consultations, and market landscaping conducted ahead of construction. Concrete textures, which have faded over time, are being reconditioned by skilled artisans. Wood railings, walls, and floors that soften the structure’s severity are being preserved, along with the deliberate use of ambient lighting that emphasizes the building’s scale and spatial flow.
PICC in the Digital Age
Beyond architectural restoration, the PICC is integrating new infrastructure to enhance its competitiveness in the global events market. Major upgrades include:
- New AV systems across all meeting rooms and halls
- High-resolution LED walls integrated into event spaces
- High-speed complex-wide Wi-Fi
- Enhanced security systems
- Energy-efficient lighting
These improvements are designed to position the PICC as a fully modern venue capable of hosting international conferences, summits, and exhibitions. The upcoming hosting of the 2026 ASEAN Summit in Manila, a driver of the renovation, will once again draw global attention to the halls of the PICC.
Steward of Filipino Art
The PICC is also home to hundreds of significant Filipino artworks. Prior to the renovation, movable pieces were transferred off-site. Four large-scale, permanently installed works—including Pagdiriwang by National Artist Jose Joya and Grid and Anito by Arturo Luz—remain on-site under strict conservation protocols.
Upon reopening, the PICC will also unveil a newly curated collection of artworks in partnership with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, reinforcing its dual role as the nation’s premier events venue and a living museum of Filipino cultural heritage.
According to PICC General Manager Atty. Nicolette Ann P. Cruz, the renovation reveals a complex that is a study in contrasts: “Every form and feature of the PICC is a play on juxtapositions. Through the renovation, the PICC hopes to bring both physical and sentimental appreciation of this historical and cultural masterpiece to new heights.”
She added that this balance between preservation and modernization will be more evident once the convention center reopens: “Light contrasted with shadow; lines softened by curves; coldness tempered with warmth. Sewn into the boldness of Locsin’s brutalism are the threads of Filipino warmth and hospitality.”
As the PICC prepares to reopen in 2025, it positions itself as a national landmark restored and an events venue primed for a new age, ready to welcome the Philippines and the world for the next half-century. •
