NCCA Opens ASEAN Cultural Center in Manila to Foster Regional Unity

• The Philippines launched the ASEAN Cultural Center in Manila (ACCM) at the Metropolitan Theater on August 9, 2026, as part of its ASEAN Chairmanship.
• The center acts as a hub for regional cultural policy, knowledge sharing, and promoting the arts to support economic growth and peace.
• The inaugural exhibition, "FLOW: Navigating the Future Together," features traditional regional boats to illustrate shared heritage and diversity.
• Admission is free and open to the public.

Background and Purpose

• The ACCM was initially envisioned during the 2017 Philippines ASEAN Chairmanship.
• Dr. Eric B. Zerrudo, NCCA Chair, emphasized that the center seeks to weave individual cultural expressions—such as textiles, architecture, and creation myths—into a single shared story of the region.
• The center aims to strengthen ties not only among ASEAN Member States but also with dialogue partners.

Key Attendees

• First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos.
• H.E. San Lwin, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community.
• Notable figures from Philippine cultural institutions including the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the National Museum, and the National Archives.
• Regional representatives, including Dao Cuong Hoang, Deputy Minister of Culture from Vietnam, and various ASEAN ambassadors.

Exhibition and Performances

• "FLOW: Navigating the Future Together" displays vessels that reflect the craftsmanship and ways of life across Southeast Asia.
• The opening program featured regional artistic traditions and concluded with the "Best of ASEAN Performing Arts (BOAPA)" showcase organized by the Cultural Center of the Philippines.