PHILIPPIES — The Philippine International Exhibition Center is set to redefine the country's events landscape. Targeted for completion in April 2028, this massive structure will rise on an 81,810-square-meter PRA-owned site within the Pasay Harbor City reclamation area, transforming the skyline.
A New Global Stage for MICE
Designed to be the largest exhibition and convention center in Southeast Asia, the PIEC aims to capture a significant share of the global meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions market. It directly addresses the shortage of facilities that currently forces global organizers to look elsewhere for adequate venues.
With approximately 243,000 square meters of total floor area, the venue will feature eight main halls and three ballrooms. It is engineered to comfortably accommodate up to 140,000 visitors and over 7,000 standard exhibition booths simultaneously, rivaling established top hubs like Singapore and Bangkok.
Architectural Marvel Rooted in Heritage
The design is a profound expression of Filipino identity, drawing inspiration from seafaring balangay boats that once crossed Philippine seas. Soaring 150-meter central arches feature intersecting ETFE disc forms that mimic unfurled sails, towering above a terracotta base that embodies the traditional palayok.
This distinct architecture celebrates global exchange and the country's rich maritime history. It pushes the boundaries of conventional center design by blending modern engineering with deep cultural narratives, creating a visually striking beacon along the shores of Manila Bay that honors the past while looking forward.
A Vibrant Hub for Filipinos and Tourists
Beyond its event spaces, the PIEC integrates a lush one-hectare biome in its central hall, showcasing the country's tropical coastal biodiversity. The south side features a 3,000-square-meter linear gallery and an open library permanently accessible to the public, offering a quiet urban retreat.
The north side offers over a hundred food and entertainment outlets with al fresco views of the famed Manila Bay sunset. This ensures the venue acts as a daily lifestyle destination rather than just a restricted events facility, welcoming people from all walks of life to gather.
Boosting Economic Growth and Connectivity
The project anchors a broader master plan for four reclaimed islands, which will feature extensive road networks, flood control systems, and dedicated bike lanes. The Senate has already endorsed the PRA's P27-billion budget for 2027 to support this massive infrastructure push.
Championed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, the PIEC aligns with the MICE Roadmap 2030. Once operational, it is expected to spur hotel development, create thousands of jobs, and attract major international events to the country, cementing its status as a premier global destination.
