MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines welcomed foreign journalists covering the upcoming 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Summit to the International Media Center (IMC) in Pasay City on Friday.
During the opening ceremony of IMC, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Lino Cayetano said the newly constructed IMC at the World Trade Center was designed to show a glimpse of the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage.
"To our friends from around Asean and around the world, this place was built for you. But what we also did here was to provide a window into our beautiful country,” Cayetano said in his speech.
Cayetano likewise encouraged the journalists to explore the exhibit booths around the venue, which showcase the rich gastronomy of the Philippines as well as the creativity of Filipino artists.
He noted, however, that the country’s people were its more valuable asset, urging local journalists to be hospitable to the foreign media.
Tourism Secretary Maria Bernardita Angara-Mathay said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. wanted to showcase everything that the Philippines has to offer in the summit to all the foreign delegates.
“The President wants us to use this opportunity to showcase the Philippines, our culture, heritage, destination, products, and the hospitality of our people,” said Angara-Mathay.
