The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC) Secretariat, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Canva Philippines earlier this week (August 19, 2025) at Canva’s Makati campus, its second-largest worldwide.
Canva is a popular global all-in-one visual communication platform.
According to a DTI news release, the partnership aims to boost Filipino creativity by equipping micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and creatives with world-class design tools and opportunities to thrive in the global economy.
The MOU is part of the Malikhaing Pinoy Program, DTI’s flagship initiative as PCIDC Chair, which promotes Filipino talent, heritage, and creativity.
The signing was represented by key officials from both parties, including DTI Competitiveness and Innovation Group Supervising Head and Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza D. Bautista, PCIDC Secretariat Acting Executive Director Lilian G. Salonga, Canva Southeast Asia Regional Lead Yani Hornilla-Donato, and Canva Country Director Maisie Littua.
“Through this collaboration, we will bring initiatives such as creative workshops, mentoring for creative entrepreneurs, and caravans for digital literacy and programs that will take design skills and creative opportunities to communities nationwide,” said Assistant Secretary Bautista.
Under the MOU, DTI and Canva will pursue capacity-building, design and entrepreneurship training, and creative showcases, with Canva’s global reach boosting DTI’s creative economy push.
“We believe that we share a deep belief in the purpose of design, technology, and creativity to uplift communities, grow businesses, and create a lasting economic impact. I’m excited most for what [this partnership] can do for the Philippines and the Filipinos,” said Yani Hornilla-Donato, Canva Southeast Asia Regional Lead.
After the signing, DTI officials toured Canva Manila Campus in Makati, a workspace showcasing creativity, collaboration, and Filipino culture.
