DTI launches expo to boost PH creative economy

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has launched the Malikhaing Pinoy Creative Expo (MPEx), positioning it as a milestone in the country’s goal to become Asia’s premier creative hub by 2030.

The five-day national event, held at SMX Aura in Taguig City, celebrates Philippine Creative Industries Month and gathers all nine creative domains and their 73 sectors under one roof.

These domains include audiovisual media, visual arts, digital interactive media, design, performing arts, publishing, traditional cultural expressions, creative services, and cultural sites.

Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque led the ceremonial opening, underscoring President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen the creative sector as a driver of national economic progress.

“Under the clear directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Department of Trade and Industry is fully committed to harnessing the power of our creative industries,” Secretary Roque said.

“The DTI will continue to provide our artists and creators with the necessary infrastructure and support, like this Malikhaing Pinoy Creative Expo, until Filipino talent gains the global recognition it truly deserves,” she added.

The MPEx showcases an immersive pavilion experience featuring exhibits of paintings, sculptures, art toys, comics, animation, and original publications across the creative domains.

Key highlights of the event include “Malikhaing Pinoy Chats,” which serve as platforms for dialogue among creative professionals, workers, students, and policymakers.

A “Creative Matchmaking for Filipino Games” pitching session was also held, where indie and student developers presented their projects to potential investors.

Dungeon King of Midnight Equinox emerged as the Best Game Pitch, gaining recognition among industry leaders.

Exhibitors at MPEx include major institutions such as the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Game Developers Association of the Philippines (GDAP), Design Center of the Philippines, and the Philippine Fashion Coalition.

The Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) represents the performing arts, while Ayala Museum highlights the cultural sites domain.

MPEx is a flagship initiative of the Malikhaing Pinoy Program, led by DTI through the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC) Secretariat.

The program aims to elevate Filipino creativity into a globally competitive economic force through policy, investment, and sector-wide collaboration.

For details on exhibitors, workshops, and performances, visit https://mpx.malikhaingpinoy.ph.