With a few weeks remaining in 2025, First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos wants to ensure that the Philippines’ chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits and Related Meetings next year would proceed without a hitch.

Mrs. Marcos is among those who are hands-on in the preparations.

With the regional gathering centered on the newly renovated Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), its neighboring facility, the old Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM) building, has been transformed into the Likhang Filipino Center. 

In this one-stop space, talented artisans and local producers will come together and shine, according to the First Lady. It will be opened to the public in January.

“For our ASEAN visitors, it will be a chance to experience Filipino culture at its very best — warm, creative and proudly homegrown,” she said.

Coconut Palace gets facelift

Just across from the PICC, the iconic Coconut Palace will also serve as a venue for the Asean Summits.

Mrs. Marcos reviewed the renovation plans for the Coconut Palace, as the Asean spouses will be gathering there.

“This beautiful, iconic structure is getting a much-needed facelift so we can proudly share it with the ASEAN spouses next year. From the handcrafted details to the breathtaking view of the bay — every corner will reflect Filipino creativity, heritage and our unique brand of hospitality,” she said. “Can’t wait to see it all come together soon!”

Sprucing up Esplanade

Meanwhile, aside from attracting locals and tourists, the Pasig River Esplanade will host vendors selling unique Filipino food.

“Instead of scattered tents, we’re putting up uniform vendor booths — each equipped with proper amenities like a sink, mini fridge, microwave, and more — to ensure both cleanliness and dignity for vendors,” Mrs. Marcos said.

A “Clean As You Go” program will be implemented to encourage visitors to “reduce, reuse, and recycle,” to ensure that waste is disposed of properly.

The First Lady is confident the shared space will be cleaner, more sanitary, and more welcoming for the over 10,000 visitors who pass through the Esplanade every day.

“The Pasig River is here to stay — and so is our responsibility to care for it. Together, we can make it cleaner, safer, and more sustainable for generations to come,” she said.