DTI’s Role in Fostering Economic Growth in Benguet
In a visionary move to realize Benguet’s Creative Potential, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Philippines is embracing the transformative power of the creative industries. Recognizing their pivotal role in bolstering provincial competitiveness, addressing national challenges, and fostering inclusive development, the DTI is taking bold steps towards harnessing this potential.
At the heart of this strategic shift is the Republic Act 11904, better known as the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act. This groundbreaking legislation has entrusted the DTI with the pivotal responsibility of spearheading the mapping of Creative Industry Domains and crafting the Creative Industry Development Roadmap for the region.
Focus Group Discussion for Realizing Benguet’s Creative Potential
To kickstart this transformative journey, the DTI Baguio Benguet orchestrated a pivotal event: a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) held on September 21, 2023, at the Benguet IP Multi-Purpose Center in Wangal, La Trinidad, Benguet. This event served as a powerful rallying point, bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders within the creative industry of the Province of Benguet.
This dynamic ensemble comprised not just creative individuals and organizations but also included representatives from National Line Agencies, the Academe represented by the University of Baguio, and the Local Government Unit of the Province. Their participation was instrumental, as the insights and perspectives they shared during the FGD will be instrumental in mapping the creative industries’ landscape in Benguet.
The fruits of this collaborative effort will be prominently showcased at the upcoming Regional Creative Festival, aptly named “FiestaKucha.” Scheduled to take place from September 26 to 28, 2023, at the Diamond Hall of Hotel Supreme along Magsaysay Avenue in Baguio City, this festival is poised to be a vibrant celebration of the region’s creative genius.
The insights garnered from the FGD are expected to be instrumental in shaping the trajectory of the creative industry in Benguet and the broader region. By providing a platform to showcase the creative talent and potential of the area, the festival aligns seamlessly with the overarching vision of harnessing the creative industries for robust economic growth and development.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from an array of organizations and individuals deeply committed to the creative cause. Among the attendees were representatives from PLGU Benguet, TARAKI TV, PGO-Library, CIATII Inc., PLGU – Tourism, the University of Baguio (Represented by Ma’am Shayana Elipane from Research Innovation Extension and Community Outreach (RIECO) office and Ma’am Divine Aguilar from the School of Information Technology (SIT)), Weaving, Arts & Crafts of Tublay, DILG-Benguet, TESDA Benguet, DOST- PSTC Benguet Official, Kulibeng Arts and Handicrafts, MBA Upholstery, and a cohort of independent artists, freelancers, and designers.
As the wheels of creativity continue to turn, DTI’s proactive approach promises to steer Benguet towards a vibrant, innovative, and economically robust future. The journey has just begun, and the destination holds the promise of a province teeming with creative possibilities.
