Binondo Church: Faith at the Heart of the World’s Oldest Chinatown
The Binondo Church is a historic church in Manila, located in the District of Binondo, near the Plaza San Lorenzo Ruiz. It was previously called
Pasay City
Philippine International Convention Center
A Hub for Global Events
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- Pasay City
Along the reclaimed shores of Manila Bay, the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) rises in bold concrete forms, its horizontal lines and cantilevered roofs immediately drawing the eye. Designed by Leandro V. Locsin, a National Artist for Architecture, the complex combines monumental scale with Filipino sensibility, connecting function and artistry across several modular halls. Walking through its corridors, the integration of works by José Joya, Arturo Luz, Napoleon Abueva, and other masters transforms the experience into a gallery of modern Filipino creativity. Since its opening for the International Monetary Fund–World Bank Joint Meeting, the PICC has hosted global summits, cultural events, and high-profile ceremonies, establishing itself as both a diplomatic venue and a tourist destination. For visitors, the PICC offers not just architecture to admire, but a glimpse of the Philippines’ place on the world stage.
Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into Philippine International Convention Center with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!
Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to Philippine International Convention Center. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.
Asia’s First World-Class Convention Venue
Perched along Vicente Sotto Street in the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex beside scenic Manila Bay, the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) stands as a signature symbol of Filipino architectural vision and international hospitality. Since its inauguration in 1976, the PICC has hosted conventions, summits, cultural performances, and corporate events, making it a site where global dialogue meets Philippine creativity.
Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.
Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.
Origins and Vision
The creation of the PICC was authorized through Presidential Decree No. 520 on July 23, 1974, reflecting a desire to elevate the Philippines’ presence in global forums. Designed by Leandro V. Locsin, the center embodies the modernist approach that earned him recognition as a National Artist. Built between 1974 and 1976, the PICC opened just in time to host the International Monetary Fund–World Bank Joint Annual Meeting, a landmark event demonstrating the country’s readiness for world-class gatherings.
Architectural Significance
The PICC exemplifies Brutalist architecture, with bold concrete volumes, cantilevered roofs, and monumental halls. Locsin’s “floating concrete volume” design balances solidity and elegance, creating spaces that are at once functional and visually striking. The complex spreads over twelve hectares of reclaimed land, composed of interconnected modules including the Delegation Building, Secretariat Building, Plenary Hall, Reception Hall, and The Forum, accommodating events from intimate meetings to large international conventions.
Art, Heritage, and Recognition
The PICC is more than architecture. In 2022, it and its curated collection of artworks were declared a National Cultural Treasure. Notable works include José Joya’s Pagdiriwang, Arturo Luz’s Anito and Grid, Napoleon Abueva’s carved wooden benches, and pieces by Hernando Ocampo, Ang Kiukok, Carlos “Botong” Francisco, and Abdulmari Asia Imao. The artworks engage with Locsin’s spatial design, making the PICC both a cultural museum and a venue for international events.
A Venue of Global Milestones
Over the decades, the PICC has hosted ASEAN summits, APEC gatherings, World Law Conferences, Miss Universe pageants, and corporate summits. Its halls have witnessed diplomatic negotiations and cultural showcases, firmly establishing the center as a symbol of Philippine hospitality and global engagement. The scenic setting along Manila Bay enhances its appeal for both events and sightseeing.
Visitor Experience
Located within the CCP Complex in Pasay City, the PICC is accessible via major roads and public transport. Visitors can explore nearby attractions including the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila Baywalk, World Trade Center Metro Manila, Star City, and the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. While many come for conferences, tourists often appreciate the PICC for its monumental halls, spatial rhythms, and integration of Filipino modern art, capturing photographs that frame both architecture and cultural heritage.
Tourism and Cultural Significance
By 2023, the PICC remained a central landmark in Manila’s tourism and cultural landscape. It attracts delegates, event attendees, architecture enthusiasts, students, and cultural travelers. Its dual identity as a functional event venue and a curated space of art and architecture exemplifies the Philippines’ blend of creativity, diplomacy, and modernity.
Legacy
The Philippine International Convention Center stands as a testament to Filipino architectural mastery and cultural ambition. Designed by a National Artist, inaugurated for globally significant events, and recognized as a National Cultural Treasure, the PICC represents architectural excellence, cultural heritage, and international relevance. For visitors, it is a destination where Manila’s modern identity, artistry, and global presence can be directly observed and appreciated.
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