Southeast Asia’s largest convention hub to rise in Metro Manila

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has awarded a P15.75-billion contract for the construction of the Philippine International Exhibition Center (PIEC), which is set to become the largest convention venue in Southeast Asia.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Tuesday, construction firm EEI Corporation announced that it received the notice of award for the first phase of the project, located in Pasay Harbor City. The center is a flagship initiative aimed at strengthening the Philippines' position in the international meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) market.

With a planned gross exhibition area of 269,000 square meters, the PIEC is expected to significantly boost the country’s trade, tourism, and investment promotion capabilities.

EEI President and CEO Henry D. Antonio said the project marks a “pivotal milestone” for the company and a key contribution to national development. “We are honored and excited to support the government in bringing this vision to life,” Antonio said. “This will be an opportunity to showcase Filipino talent and the overall strength of the local construction industry.”

The project’s initial phase includes detailed engineering design, foundational works, and structural development. It is expected to accommodate both domestic and international events and elevate the Philippines’ visibility in the global exhibitions circuit.

The PIEC forms part of the government’s broader infrastructure agenda, aimed at modernizing public facilities and spurring economic activity. EEI also noted efforts to maximize the use of local materials and labor, while acknowledging the need to import some construction inputs.

The DPWH has yet to disclose the timeline for the completion of the first phase, but the project is being closely watched as a potential game-changer in regional convention hosting capacity.