Related: Beauty Beyond Brutalism: Inside the Historic Architecture of PICC
Two of the things that the pandemic crisis took away from us is organizing and attending big gatherings. Imagine the number of reunions, parties, and events that have gone by for the fear of acquiring the virus. While we have learned a number of applications that help us connect virtually with people, nothing beats the natural face-to-face conversations with our families and friends.
Two years after the pandemic, we are slowly adjusting to the traditions of the old normal and space of the new normal. We are starting to plan trips in and out of the country. Our social skills are up to the test with increasing events and gatherings. We are seeing more people now. Left with no other choice but to keep going, we just do.
Now that we are more open to the face-to-face interactions, the Philippine International Convention Center (mostly known as PICC) is keeping up with the country’s changes even after 45 years.
The Return of the Reign
Since March of this year, the Center has opened its doors for conferences, meetings, celebrations, worship services, and graduations. Some of these include the Philippine Economic Briefing of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas and the Department of Finance; and the World Travel and Tourism Council gala dinner of the Department of Tourism. PICC was able to accommodate the stakeholders in the local tourism industry and international delegates from 46 countries. Last May, the canvassing of votes by the Commission on Elections for senatorial and party list positions were held in the Forum Tent.
PICC General Manager Atty. Renato B. Padilla expressed his delight for the comeback of the edifice. “PICC places health and safety as its top priority. We are happy that our regular clients are returning to hold their events here, and we are welcoming new clients as well. After a two-year hiatus, live events are back and we are hopeful it will stay that way.”
The Assurance of Safety and Service
The Department of Tourism issued a Safety Seal to PICC for its strict implementation of health protocols to assure its clients, employees, and guests that there is no compromise to their health.
Some of the institution’s measures into keeping PICC safe is disinfecting the whole venue twice a day. Areas frequented by groups are sanitized more often.
Besides the health protocols, PICC also upgraded its services to cater to their clients’ needs—a faster internet speed for virtual and hybrid events and the inclusion of meals and technical equipment for special meeting packages.
The Preservation of Power
As the Philippines’ premier meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) venue, National Artist Leandro Locsin’s legacy maintains its status through its renovations and improvements.
Companies can now take advantage of the office spaces for lease in the converted fourth and third floors of the Reception Hall and Plenary Hall, respectively. Aside from this, escalators and carpets were replaced and upgraded as well.
In addition to the improvements, sustainability is also in their equation. Did you know that PICC houses the largest solar panel installation among all government buildings? 3,207 panels cover the 4,342.81 floor area of the structure. Moreover, the buildings also use LED lights and inverter type air-conditioning units.
According to Atty. Padilla, “We remain committed to our mandate of operating an international convention center with the highest quality of facilities and services. We assure our clients that we will continue to help them create successful events.”
Visit the PICC website to book your next meeting or event.
