DTI Empowers Filipino Creators With Content Class

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) successfully concluded the Malikhaing Pinoy: Online Content Creation Class on Feb. 7, equipping 23 scholars with skills in digital storytelling and online content creation.

The four-day program, led by the Creative Industries Development Office, aimed to harness Filipino creativity and promote culturally rich narratives in the digital space.

Industry veterans, including Leo Martinez, Raymond Red, Ricky Orellana Jr., Mel Bacani III, Senen Dimaguila Jr., and Jolevs Domingo, provided mentorship, guiding participants in both the artistic and technical aspects of content creation.

The curriculum also covered intellectual property rights, with insights from Atty. Jocel Dilag of Bughaw Creative Collective, and government financing support for creatives, discussed by Wally Don Calderon of Small Business Corporation.

Participants applied their learnings by producing engaging videos inspired by Filipino proverbs or “salawikain,” showcasing local culture and creativity while contributing to the growth of the Philippine creative industries.

During the culminating event, DTI Competitiveness and Innovation Group (CIG) Assistant Secretary Leonila T. Baluyut emphasized the evolving role of content creation.

“Content creation is no longer just a hobby—it has become a powerful tool for storytelling, brand-building, and even economic opportunity,” she said.

She noted that the Philippines had 86.75 million active social media users in 2024, an 8% increase from the previous year, with Filipinos spending an average of 3 hours and 34 minutes daily on social platforms, among the highest globally.

“This digital shift empowers content creators to influence, educate, and entertain audiences locally and globally,” she added.

DTI-CIG Supervising Head Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza D. Bautista encouraged scholars to create meaningful and impactful content.

“Beyond the technical skills, I encourage you to create with purpose. Use your platforms to spread positivity, educate, uplift, and inspire,” she said.

A key partner in the initiative is Director Leo Martinez’s “Doon Po Sa Amin” program, an advocacy campaign promoting digital storytelling to uplift individuals and communities.

The Malikhaing Pinoy initiative aligns with this vision, enabling scholars to celebrate Filipino culture through creative storytelling.

For updates and future training opportunities, follow the DTI Creative Industries Development Office on Facebook.