First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos advanced the Philippines’ cultural, economic and historical development this week through a series of key engagements.
From strengthening international partnerships to revitalizing national landmarks, the First Lady demonstrated her commitment to shaping a brighter future for the nation.
Mrs. Marcos recently met with Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, CEO of DP World, a global leader in logistics and port operations.
Their discussion centered on the vital role of foreign investments in the country’s economic growth.
In her Instagram post on Wednesday, Mrs. Marcos thanked DP World for its continued support, calling its investment not just an economic boost but a strong vote of confidence in the Filipino people.
“Your investment is more than just a boost to our economy. It’s a vote of confidence in the talent, grit, and potential of the Filipino people. Here’s to building a future we can all be proud of,” she wrote.
Following her meeting with Bin Sulayem, she turned her attention to the restoration of the Manila Central Post Office — another national treasure that suffered significant damage in a devastating fire in May 2023.
The First Lady visited the Centro de Turismo in Intramuros to discuss the rehabilitation plans.
“Today, hope is being rebuilt. With the help of like-minded agencies, we plan to transform this iconic structure into a vibrant space for arts, culture, and the community,” she said.
The building will soon be a cultural hub, reinforcing Manila’s position as a key center for arts and culture in Southeast Asia.
She also visited the newly restored Forum de Intramuros, an iconic venue with a rich history.
Once home to exhibitions and performances, the structure had fallen into disrepair, but thanks to a government-led initiative, it has been revitalized as a dynamic space for cultural events.
“We’ve brought the tent back to life, but with a little twist. See for yourself what a beautiful venue this has become!” the First Lady said.
The newly renovated Forum is now open to the public, offering a fresh space for the arts and community events.
Continuing her focus on the arts, Mrs. Marcos also checked on the construction of the Philippine Film Heritage Building in Intramuros, which will soon house the country’s film museum and a cinematheque restoration lab.
The new venue will serve as a gathering place for filmmakers, writers, and artists, offering them a platform to preserve and promote Filipino cinema.
“This will soon be a beautiful space for our film museum and cinematheque restoration lab,” Mrs. Marcos said.
“A place where writers, actors, directors, and everyone interested in the film and music industry can converge and exchange ideas,” she added.
The First Lady also hosted reigning Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig and other titleholders from the Miss Universe Philippines organization at her office.
She praised the women for their leadership, purpose and empowerment.
“There’s something truly inspiring about being in the presence of women who lead with purpose, heart, and confidence,” she said.”
She also hinted that the Philippines may once again host the Miss Universe pageant.