The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) celebrated its 45th anniversary with a special virtual show featuring OPM singer and songwriter Ebe Dancel on Nov. 6.
Accompanied by his guitar while singing his soulful songs, Dancel lit up the iconic Plenary Hall of the PICC, performing onstage for the first time in almost two years, for Pagdiriwang: The PICC 45th Anniversary Special streamed live on the PICC Facebook page.
During the show, Dancel shared personal stories about his performances at the iconic venue and why it felt like a “homecoming” to be inside PICC after a long time. The last time he performed at PICC, he related, was in 2019. The stage was the upper lobby’s grand staircase. “People had no idea I was going to perform because it was such an unconventional stage – I was literally on the stairs, and I had fun doing that.”
“I’ve always loved performing at PICC because I get a nostalgic feeling whenever I’m here. It’s a place that seems to just get better with time. I’m happy that I’m able to perform here again,” he said.
As Dancel sang his songs “Burnout”, “Tanging Kailangan”, “Manatili”, and “Bawat Daan”, viewers were also taken on a tour of the premier venue for meetings, conventions, exhibitions, and special events in the Philippines.
Since PICC opened its doors to Filipinos and the world in 1976, it has continuously offered an unparalleled experience to its guests thanks to its iconic architecture and design, with a spacious floor area of more than 70,000 square feet and more than 30 meeting rooms.
For a performer like Dancel, venue is important in order to create that special musical experience.
PICC has readied itself to welcome live performances once again with seamless adaptation to the current situation brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since transitioning to the new normal, the venue has been strictly implementing health and safety protocols within its premises to ensure the safety and security of all clients, guests, and employees. All PICC employees and outsourced personnel are fully vaccinated. The Center also has a Safety Seal from the Department of Tourism, which ensures compliance with the minimum public health and safety standards.
It also upgraded its Wi-Fi and technology capacities to address client requirements for virtual and hybrid events.
“PICC places health and safety as its top priority. We assure our clients and our guests that we are prepared to provide them with the necessary assistance as we gradually ease into the ‘new normal’ in conducting events,” said general manager Renato B. Padilla.