The Philippines is putting culture at the heart of its ASEAN 2026 Chairmanship as the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) strengthens its regional commitment with the opening of the ASEAN Cultural Center in Manila (ACCM) at the historic Metropolitan Theater on August 9, 2026.
Designed as a regional cultural hub, the ACCM seeks to deepen ties among ASEAN Member States and dialogue partners through knowledge-sharing, joint programs, and stronger cultural policies. It also aims to promote culture and the arts as vital forces for economic growth, peace, and regional stability.
“Through creation myths, horizons, textiles, boat-building traditions, and architecture, the exhibition celebrates the different expressions of who we are, yet together, they tell one shared story,” NCCA Chair and Executive Director Dr. Eric B. Zerrudo said in his welcome remarks.
Zerrudo recalled that the establishment of the ACCM was first envisioned during the Philippines’ previous ASEAN Chairmanship in 2017. He said turning that vision into reality required proactive initiatives, steadfast support from the country’s leaders, and a sustained commitment to advancing cultural cooperation across the region.
The opening drew a distinguished roster of national and regional leaders, underscoring the significance of the ACCM as a landmark initiative for ASEAN cultural cooperation. Among those present were First Lady Louise Araneta – Marcos; H.E. San Lwin, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community; former NCCA Chair and National Archives of the Philippines Executive Director Victorino Mapa Manalo; Cultural Center of the Philippines President Kaye Tinga; National Museum of the Philippines Director-General Jeremy Barns; Dao Cuong Hoang, Deputy Minister of Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture; ASEAN Member States ambassadors; and heads of cultural and government agencies.
Cultural performances showcasing the region’s artistic traditions also highlighted the program, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the gallery exhibition, “FLOW: Navigating the Future Together.” The exhibition explores the diverse cultures of ASEAN through traditional boats from across the region.
Featuring vessels that reflect each country’s distinct heritage, craftsmanship, and way of life, “FLOW” also highlights the shared connections among ASEAN communities. Its presentation of different traditions shows how the region’s diversity can exist alongside a sense of common identity.
The day culminated in the Best of ASEAN Performing Arts (BOAPA), led by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), bringing the celebration to a close with performances highlighting the region’s vibrant artistic traditions.
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