Posted on by Joseph Renor Obrino

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October 14, 2024- Calbayog City Convention Center buzzed with energy through the “Lunsod, Lunsad” Creative Industry Summit as part of the city’s Charter Day celebration. The event brought together key players in the creative industries, including from Northwest Samar State University led by Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, VP for Research, Innovation, and Extension, Dr. Ervin Rodriguez, Director for Innovations, and Mr. Jake Calagos, Director of the Integrated Multimedia and Communications Office, along with his staff.

City Mayor- Hon. Raymund C. Uy, along with other LGU officials, showed strong support for the creative industries by attending the event, which also included local artists and artisans, entrepreneurs, students from CADSEV and the Special Program in the Arts of Calbayog City National High School, DepEd teachers, and industry stakeholders.

The summit featured thought-provoking talks from renowned experts. Ms. Cris Dumlao, Animation Producer and Creative Director of Digital Innovators, Inc., discussed the importance of sustainable creation in the creative industries. Mr. Jo-Dann Darong, Director III, Competitiveness and Innovation Group of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), delivered an energetic and comprehensive presentation on Republic Act No. 11904 or “An Act Providing for the Development and Promotion of the Philippine Creative Industries, and Appropriating Funds.” Engr. Meilou Macabare, DTI Provincial Director (Samar), affirmed the agency’s commitment to the “Lunsod Lunsad” roadmap. Their discussions sprouted a lively and comprehensible open forum.

In a major boost to Calbayog’s creative aspirations, the DTI announced full funding approval for the city’s project to transform the Handuman into a thriving creative hub. Calbayog was selected from over 1,000 cities and municipalities vying for the funding, landing among the 62 recipients.
 
Mayor Uy, in his speech, recognized the emerging importance of the creative industry and the national agency’s aggressive approach to its implementation. He pledged his support to bring creative initiatives to the grassroots level within Calbayog City.
Calbayog’s own creative icon, Mr. Aris Ventures, delivered an inspiring message to the audience, encouraging them to embrace their creativity and love for their city.
 
Beyond knowledge sharing, the summit showcased the talents and products of Calbayognon artists. A vibrant display of creative works filled the venue, highlighting the city’s rich artistic heritage. Intermission numbers featuring Waray dance and songs, performed by students, further enlivened the event.
 
The “Lunsod, Lunsad” Creative Industry Summit proved to be a resounding success, fostering an exchange of ideas, showcasing local talent, and solidifying Calbayog City’s commitment to nurturing its creative potential. This summit, coupled with the DTI funding, marks a significant step towards establishing Calbayog as a thriving hub of creativity.