Philippines industry to press for more space

By Mark Armsden MANILA The Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC) is hoping to announce a massive increase in floor space at the Philippine International Convention Centre in Manila. PCVC executive director Mr Danny Corpuz said the increase would provide valuable infrastructure and greater scope for development of the convention and exhibition industry in Manila. Mr Corpuz said the PCVC had been lobbying PICC owners, the Central Bank of the Philippines, to approve a project to build an extra 5,000sqm of exhibition space. He said the extension was essential for the industry in Manila as it is facing increased difficulties due to financial and political developments in the country. "We see it as vital to develop an area next to the PICC that will be dedicated to exhibitions," Mr Corpuz said. "One of the weaknesses of the current convention centre is that there is a lack of exhibition space, especially so when an associated convention is being held. "What we have proposed would be a project able to host huge conventions and also create 5,000sqm of extra exhibition space. We are hopeful of getting approval." Mr Corpuz added the PCVC was seeing increased links with the Philippine Society of Executive Associations to promote domestic business. It was also assisting the various associations in securing international business from their relevant counterparts. "We will assist these associations in getting business but they must be encouraged to recognise how valuable this business is," Mr Corpuz said.