The Philippine creative industries generated an impressive ₱1.94 trillion in value and provided 7.51 million jobs in 2024, announced Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina A. Roque at the Creative Entrepreneurship Summit 2025 on May 31.
Secretary Roque underscored the pivotal role of the creative industries in the Philippines’ economic development and job creation. She affirmed the government’s dedication to fostering this dynamic sector with the aim of establishing the Philippines as the leading creative economy in ASEAN by 2030.
Addressing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the creative sector, Secretary Roque said, “We are with you in navigating the challenges of business development, digitalization, and scaling up. We believe in your talent, and more importantly, your potential.”
The trade chief further said, “What we are seeing is the rise of a movement—one where creativity is no longer seen as a hobby, but as a business, a profession, and a national growth driver.”
In a DTI news release, the Creative Entrepreneurship Summit 2025 was initiated by the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship-Go Negosyo in pursuit of its mission to uplift the lives of Filipinos through entrepreneurship.
The event sought to acknowledge the significant contribution of the creative industries by bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, private sector champions, innovators, and creative entrepreneurs. It featured panel discussions and learning sessions, interactive booths, and complimentary business mentorship opportunities.
A key highlight of summit was the honorary recognition of seven Filipino creative icons and entrepreneurs, with Secretary Roque joining Go Negosyo Founder Mr. Jose Ma. A. Concepcion III in presenting the awards.
The DTI, under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., takes the mission of uplifting Filipinos through entrepreneurship. Through the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, the DTI is actively laying the foundation for a more sustainable and globally competitive creative “Bagong Pilipinas.”
As chair of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council, the DTI is aligning policies, programs, and partnerships to empower every Filipino creative.
Acknowledging that government programs cannot succeed in isolation, Secretary Roque expressed deep gratitude to Go Negosyo for hosting the summit, recognizing their invaluable continued support through mentorship, market access, and shared advocacy.
Secretary Roque urged all creatives to continue turning passion into profit and creativity into commerce. She said that this endeavor benefits not only current entrepreneurs but also the next generation of Filipino innovators, ultimately contributing to the establishment of a “Bagong Pilipinas,” where innovation thrives and economic prosperity is shared by all.
