First Lady Liza Marcos, Mayor Isko lead ASEAN Architecture Festival opening

Joined by Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, festival curator William Ti, Jr. of WTA Architecture and Design Studio and Architect Rebecca Ti, the First Lady also led the October 2 ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Museo de Intramuros alongside international architects visiting the historic district.

Themed, “Shared Ground: Care, Culture and Collective Futures,” the event convened 128 speakers and 4,000 attendees from across Southeast Asia. Also gracing the occasion were officers of Pieni surfaces, one of the event’s sponsors.

Pieni Surfaces is a Philippine company specializing in decorative surface finishes and European specialty coatings, including microcement, mineral paints and textured wall finishes that are ‘built to last.’ It serves architects, interior designers, contractors and property owners working on residential, commercial and hospitality projects.

Architects from around the world gathered in Manila for the three-day festival, which featured forums where architects around the world explore architecture, culture, and ideas for future-ready cities.

In his speech, Moreno said that ASEAN countries’ cultural differences are connected by shared experiences and common responsibility to build people-centered cities that respect local culture.

“ASEAN shares many experiences. We may have different languages, histories, and traditions, but we also share common challenges, and a common responsibility to build cities that care for people, respect culture, and prepare for the future,” he added.

Architects and delegates from different countries attended the event’s opening day to also exchange ideas and insights on architecture.

The event ran daily from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. until Oct. 4, 2026.

Full article here.