The country’s business leaders and a few political figures, as well as members of the diplomatic corps, streamed into the SM Mall of Asia Arena starting at 5 p.m. today for the Apec welcome reception. As they walked in, the Philippines revealed the setting prepared by its artists and artisans–very Filipino yet with a modern touch.
Leading furniture designer Milo Naval and landscapist Ponce Veridiano turned the venue’s second level into a tropical garden with streamlined furniture made of indigenous materials.
Globally famous designer Kenneth Cobonpue turned the Arena into a vast dinner reception area inspired by the Ifugao Rice Terraces. The delegates were overheard saying how impressed they were at the proceedings, adding this was perhaps the warmest reception they’ve experienced. (PC)