Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque underscored the importance of embracing digital transformation to propel the growth of the Philippines’ creative industry.
Speaking at the inaugural Go Negosyo Creative Entrepreneurship Summit held at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque on Saturday, Roque reaffirmed the government’s strong support for Filipino creatives, pledging assistance from local platforms to global stages.
“To our MSMEs in the creative space, you are not alone,” Roque said. “We’re here to support your journey in business development, digitalization, and scaling up. Going digital is the fastest route to success.”
She hailed world-renowned Filipino designers like Michael Cinco and Monique Lhuillier as shining examples of the country’s creative potential and global appeal.
Roque highlighted the significant role of creatives—ranging from designers and weavers to digital artists and filmmakers—not only as artists but as vital contributors to the nation’s economic development.
“Our creative industry is a cornerstone of the country’s economic future and a strong driver of trade and tourism,” she said. “Your voice, your story, your vision matter.”
Addressing the audience, she emphasized that creative work is more than just art—it is enterprise, livelihood, and nation-building. “Let us continue transforming passion into profit and creativity into sustainable businesses, not just for ourselves, but for the next generation.”
Roque also cited the sector’s strong economic impact, revealing that the creative industry generated PHP1.94 trillion and provided 7.5 million jobs in 2024. She noted the government’s focus on emerging fields like animé and game development, highlighting a Baguio-based studio that started small and has now achieved significant success.
As part of the DTI’s commitment to advancing the sector—aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive—Roque urged creatives to explore malikhaingpinoy.com.ph, the official portal of the DTI’s Malikhaing Pinoy Program. The platform is designed to help Filipino creatives connect, learn, and thrive in a digital-first economy.
“Over 900 individuals have already joined the platform,” Roque shared. “The DTI is here for every entrepreneur—whether in traditional businesses or the creative industries.”