By Brian Campued
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has nothing but praise for his wife, First Lady Liza Marcos, for leading the efforts on the rehabilitation of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).
In the third part of the “BBM Podcast” Episode 5 on Wednesday, the President described the First Lady as “very effective,” not just for restoring the PICC “back to its old glory” but also in her other endeavors.
“She just doesn’t let go of something. Once she gets hold of something and she decides to do it, she actually gets it done,” he said. “She’s a smart girl. Her legal training serves her well.”
The President also recalled his visit to the newly restored and upgraded PICC—in time for its 50th year since it was first opened on Sept. 5, 1976—noting that the venue is now ready for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in 2026, which the Philippines will host.
“I was really amazed at the progress that they had made from the time that they began until the time that we went there and cut the ribbon and, you know, had our little ceremony,” he said.
“It was really shiny and bright, and we were featuring once again all of the artwork,” he added, referring to the pieces of National Artists Jose Joya and Arturo Luz.
The First Lady is known for her support of culture and the arts, heritage preservation, and health. She spearheaded the rollout of the “LAB for All” program, which delivers free health services to various parts of the country, as well as the rehabilitation of the Pasig River.
Continuing the discussion on family, the President was also asked about the dish he likes to prepare and cook for his wife, especially on weekends—to which, he answered, “That’s easy—pakbet.”
He also shared some personal anecdotes about his three sons—Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Sandro, Joseph Simon, and William Vincent.
“They’re very distinct in their personalities,” Marcos said. “But over the years, we’ve already developed a way of relating. And each one is very different. But they all crack me up. They all make me laugh a lot.”
Before the interview concluded, the Chief Executive was asked if he wants to be a grandfather and what advice he would give to his future daughter-in-law: “I’m at the stage in my life where I would say, yes, please. But I would also add, good luck. Knowing my sons, good luck with that.”
-av
