President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. heaped praises on First Lady Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos for her instrumental role in the successful rehabilitation of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), as the country prepares to host the ASEAN Summit in 2026.

In his latest BBM Podcast interview aired on Wednesday, President Marcos commended the First Lady’s determination, discipline, and proficiency in restoring the historic landmark, describing her as “very effective.”

“She just doesn’t let go of something. Once she gets hold of something and she decides to do it, she actually gets it done. And she’s very effective,” President Marcos said.

“She’s a smart girl. I mean, what can I say? I mean, her legal training serves her well,” the President added.

President Marcos recalled his recent visit to the newly restored PICC, noting the remarkable transformation of the convention center.

“I was really amazed at the progress that they had made from the time that they began until the time that we went there and cut the ribbon and you know had our little ceremony. The PICC looked like when we first opened it,” the President said.

The PICC opened on September 5, 1976. Its first major event was the IMF-World Bank Meeting held on October 4 to 8 of the same year.

“It was really shiny and bright, and we were featuring once again all of the artwork… And you know, it’s back to its old glory,” President Marcos added, citing the artworks of National Artists Jose Joya and Arturo Luz.

The PICC serves as a key venue for international events, including the forthcoming ASEAN Summit next year.

The Chief Executive expressed his gladness for the timely restoration of the PICC, considering the vital role it will play for hosting the world’s top leaders and their delegations during the biannual summit. | PND