The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in collaboration with the British Council Philippines, hosted an in-country session of the ASEAN-UK Creative Economy (ACE) Hybrid Creative Economy Policy Training Programme on February 12 at the First United Building in Escolta Street, according to a DTI news release.
Developed by the British Council, in partnership with Cultural Associates Oxford, the program is an immersive, self-taught hybrid course. It is designed for policymakers in local, regional, and national government, as well as professionals in the cultural and creative industries in the southeast Asian region. Its latest iteration ran from October 15, 2024, to January 30, 2025.
The session “Shaping Spaces: An Immersive Exploration of Creative Placemaking” allowed participants to explore the principles of creative placemaking. This activity took place through a guided tour of Escolta’s revitalized creative hubs in the historic First United Building.
Placemaking is the practice of planning, designing, and managing public spaces to create places where people want to live, work, play, and learn.
The speakers for this session included Mr. William Chamberlain of Creative Wick, Managing Director Robby May-Sylianteng of First United Building, Mr. Julius Redillas and Ms. Shara Francisco of the 98B Collaboratory, and Mr. Jodinand Aguillon of the HUB: Make Lab.
DTI-Creative Industries Development Office Director Lilian Salonga was also present to deliver remarks during the session.
The tour was followed by expert discussions and networking opportunities, which gathered policymakers, industry stakeholders, and creative professionals. They shared insights on the role of creative hubs in driving urban renewal, cultural tourism, and community development.
“Today is more than just a discussion—it is an opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and reimagine how we design and develop creative spaces that are both economically sustainable and culturally meaningful. By working together, we can create inclusive, vibrant communities that celebrate creativity and innovation,” DTI-Competitiveness and Innovation Group Assistant Secretary Leonila Baluyut said as she emphasized the value of collaborations.
This ACE Hybrid Creative Economy Policy Training Programme aligns with the DTI’s ongoing efforts to advance creative placemaking and foster vibrant and sustainable creative ecosystems.
As part of these efforts, DTI collaborated with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts and the British Council Philippines to lead key programs last year. These included the Creative Nation Summit, held from August 30 to September 1, and Championing Creative Placemaking in Bacolod and Victorias: Dialogues and Capacity-Building Project, conducted from December 15 to 17. These initiatives strengthen creative communities, boost economic growth, and position the Philippines as a leading hub for cultural and creative development.