The Department of Science and Technology (DoST) and Gridlock Games Studio will host the ALT+TAB Festival at the SMX Convention Center from 20 to 21 June, highlighting the intersection of science, technology, and the country’s growing creative industry.

The two-day event aims to showcase the science department’s ongoing support for the creative sector through research, capacity building, and innovation programs that merge technological development with Filipino creativity.

It will feature regional winners of the Level Up: Esports Game Development Challenge. It will also include dedicated spaces where tech enthusiasts and gamers can test game prototypes and explore new technologies used in creative merchandise production.

Odale Patrick Roxas, CEO of Gridlock Games Studio, noted his company’s long-standing relationship with the DoST National Capital Region office, which extends beyond the gaming sector.

“We have already converted many vehicles to electric vehicles and it is already available in the market for a long time,” Roxas said. He added that the upcoming festival will serve as a premier venue for esports and game developers to gain public exposure.

DoST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho Mabborang said the agency has mapped out a strategy for where it wants to catapult the gaming industry over the next two to three years.

As part of this push, the department is conducting continuous training series for the gaming and sports industries in regions such as General Santos City and the Cordillera Administrative Region.

Meantime, DoST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. reiterated the agency’s commitment to esports, gaming, and creative animation.

“We believe that the soft power of Filipino talent is there,” Solidum said.