REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES
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PICC Opens 2026 as Venue of Prestigious BSP Annual Reception for the Banking Community
/ February 6, 2026 09:43 AM
(Front row, L–R) BSP Deputy Governors Lyn I. Javier, Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Mamerto E. Tangonan, and Elmore O. Capule.(Second row, L–R) Monetary Board Members Jose L. Querubin, Walter C. Wassmer, Frederick D. Go, BSP Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr., Benjamin E. Diokno, Rosalia V. De Leon, and Romeo L. Bernardo.
The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) launched its golden year on a high note as the venue of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Annual Reception for the Banking Community on January 23, 2026, the BSP’s prime social event of the year.
Traditionally held at Fort Abad within the BSP Complex, this year’s gathering of leaders in the banking and financial sector moved to the elegantly restored PICC Courtyard—a statement of support for the BSP-owned convention center’s enhanced capabilities and readiness to host high-level national and international events, including the landmark 2026 ASEAN Summit.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli M. Remolona Jr.
In his message, BSP Governor and Monetary Board Chairman Eli M. Remolona Jr. underscored the theme “Innovation, Inclusion, Integrity”, noting that these principles are essential to sustaining economic growth while safeguarding financial stability.
Gov. Remolona, who also serves as Chairman of the PICC Board, welcomed guests with a resounding recognition of PICC’s restoration, stating, “As you know, we restored the building because after 50 years, it was due for a restoration. And because it will be the main venue for ASEAN meetings this year.”
He added, with light humor, “This Courtyard is surrounded by 20 sculptures given by APEC countries. I hope you take the time to mingle with them, as well as with your friends. I assure you, the sculptures don’t bite.”
The ceremonial toast was led by Gov. Remolona, who was joined by Monetary Board Members Romeo L. Bernardo, Rosalia V. De Leon, Benjamin E. Diokno, Frederick D. Go, Jose L. Querubin, and Walter C. Wassmer.
The distinguished guests lingered long after the program formally ended, enjoying the Courtyard’s refined yet relaxed atmosphere amid the crisp evening breeze. Surrounded by PICC’s iconic brutalist architecture, works by National Artists Arturo Luz and Napoleon Abueva, and sculptures donated by APEC member economies, the open-air venue provided an inviting backdrop for conversations and strategic networking at the same time – these are the country’s top bankers, after all. Enhanced by landscaped gardens, infinity waterfalls, ambient lighting, and a state-of-the-art audio system, the Courtyard embodied the PICC Restoration Project’s signature brutalist weave, reflecting a fusion of heritage and innovation.
L–R) BSP Managing Director Dennis Santiago; PICC General Manager Nicolette Ann Cruz; and BSP Directors Erizelle Linaban, Eloisa Glindro, Reynaldo Florencio Zipagan, Sarah Severina Curtis, and Archellis Villena.
The reception marked PICC’s first major high-profile engagement following its reopening in September 2025. As the 2026 ASEAN Summit approaches, the PICC is prepared to serve as its main venue, offering world-class meeting rooms and facilities designed to meet the expectations of global leaders and modern international events.
Photos courtesy of BSP
