PICC still preferred venue for MICE

The Philippine International Convention Center has remained a frontrunner in the Philippine MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) industry for more than four decades now, hosting more than 400 events a year.

Among the biggest events on a regular basis are medical conventions and other meetings organized by various professional organizations. To date, the PICC has hosted close to 100 major professional conventions, both local and international. These annual gatherings of the different industry experts, which last for three to five days, are attended by thousands of delegates from all over the country and abroad.

Associations and organizations continue to hold their events at the PICC for its complete and numerous convention facilities that suit every need.

Aside from its capacity to accommodate 10,000 individuals all at once, the PICC has halls that can accommodate plenary sessions for 3,000, and more than 20 meeting rooms for breakout sessions.

The 70,000 square meter convention center also has dedicated spaces for exhibitions and sponsors booths, such as the Forum and the Executive Lounge. Its exclusive caterer, the acclaimed food service provider Via Mare, uses a functional central kitchen with appropriate banquet preparation equipment that can cater to thousands of guests within the premises.

The Center has also upgraded its information technology and security systems to address the technological and safety requirements of all events and attendees. Free WiFi is available throughout the center, and over 200 CCTV cameras are strategically placed around the complex.

Its proximity to the airport, hotels, business, cultural and lifestyle centers is an added convenience to delegates.

“Conferences and conventions are important for the medical industry as this is the only time of the year that practitioners and specialists come together to discuss the latest trends, research, and practices in their specific fields,” said PICC general manager Renato Padilla. “We aim to continuously provide world class service and facilities to our medical practitioners and other industry professionals.”

PICC goes as far as providing bid support for associations who pitch for hosting global and regional conventions. “We share the Department of Tourism’s vision for the Philippines to become a top MICE venue in the Asia Pacific,” Padilla said. “PICC is one of the few venues in the country that can sufficiently accommodate the requirements of large-scale conventions. By helping the medical industry in inviting their international counterparts to hold their meeting here, we are also able to contribute to the economy by promoting the Philippines as a tourist destination.”