Cultural power

The inaugural ASEAN Creative Industries Expo by Malikhaing Pinoy transformed the SMX Convention Center Aura into an elegant crucible of contemporary style and vision, positioning the Philippines as the ultimate arbiter of Southeast Asia’s cultural landscape.

Organized by the DTI and held from 17 to 19 September, the landmark gathering was a celebration of the country’s creative economy, which now stands as a monumental powerhouse contributing significantly to the national GDP.

Under the clear mandate of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., DTI Secretary Cristina A. Roque showcased a sophisticated ecosystem where local talents are meticulously groomed into international powerhouses. Charmaine Mignon S. Yalong, commercial counsellor; DTI Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza D. Bautista; Ambassador Lee Chul, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to ASEAN; Lee Gahue, second secretary, RoK Mission to ASEAN; Han Jiyeong, second secretary, RoK Mission to ASEAN.

From the allure of traditional design to a booming digital interactive media sector on a meteoric upward trajectory, the expo beautifully demonstrated that Filipino ingenuity is the country’s most lucrative and stylish export.

The pavilion seamlessly harmonized the diverse creative domains. The atmosphere buzzed with global ambition as Secretary Roque unveiled the blueprints for a beautifully integrated future, highlighting the upcoming Digital Economy Framework Agreement and the Philippines’ envisioned ASEAN Center of Excellence for Creative Industries for the upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship. Endorsed by the ASEAN Secretariat, these initiatives are set to fluidly streamline cross-border digital trade, intellectual property and creative collaboration.

By successfully blending rich cultural roots with new digital tools, the event presented a modern Filipino style, setting a new regional standard for creative success.