EEI Corporation, the Yuchengco-led engineering and construction giant, has secured a P15.7-billion contract for the design and construction of the Philippine International Exhibition Center (PIEC), which is poised to become the largest exhibition and convention center in Southeast Asia.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) issued the Notice of Award to EEI for Phase 1 of the project, which will rise on Pasay Harbor City, a newly reclaimed island in Manila Bay. With a planned gross exhibition area of 269,000 square meters, the PIEC aims to position the country as a leading destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in Asia.
“The Philippine International Exhibition Center is a massive project that is poised to make a meaningful contribution to the economy,” said EEI President and CEO Henry D. Antonio.
“It marks a pivotal milestone for all of us in EEI, and we are honored and excited to support the government in bringing this vision to life. This project reinforces the path our company is taking—one driven by expansive opportunities, greater impact, and a future shaped by shared ambition and bold progress,” Antonio added.
The PIEC is expected to attract global exhibitions and conventions, stimulate trade and tourism, and generate jobs across various industries. The facility also forms part of the Marcos administration’s broader agenda to accelerate infrastructure and promote foreign investment.
“We are indeed excited that such an important building project of the President, His Excellency Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has been awarded to EEI Corporation,” Antonio said.
“This will be an opportunity for us to showcase Filipino creativity and the overall strength of the construction industry in the Philippines. Although we recognize that some materials will inevitably have to be imported, we are committed to maximizing Filipino content in building this iconic landmark,” the executive added.
Phase 1 of the project will cover detailed engineering and design, foundation construction, and architectural and structural works, along with consulting services. This stage is scheduled to run from 2024 to 2025, while civil works will continue under a separate package from 2026 to 2027.
Once operational, the PIEC will serve as the Philippines’ main venue for major local and international events, elevating the country’s global profile in the MICE industry. Its development also highlights EEI’s role as a trusted partner in delivering complex, high-impact infrastructure projects.
The PIEC will rise on Pasay Harbor City, a joint venture between the Pasay City government and Pasay Harbor City Corp., whose shareholders include Udenna Corp. of businessman Dennis Uy and Ulticon Builders, Inc. The area is being envisioned as a world-class commercial and events district similar to waterfront developments in other Southeast Asian countries.
EEI, listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange, is one of the country’s most established construction firms, with expertise in infrastructure, electromechanical systems, industrial facilities, and large-scale building projects. It has also partnered with global companies in delivering key transport and railway systems.
Among its major public sector projects are the South Commuter Railway Project Package 7, the Malolos-Clark Railway Project Package 4 (in partnership with Spain’s Acciona), and Package 2 for the San Fernando Station. It also forms part of the consortium building the Metro Manila Subway Project, alongside Japanese firms Shimizu Corp., Fujita Corp., and Takenaka Civil Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd.
