Business Bayani PH

Iloilo City has secured a ₱4.5 million grant from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Competitiveness and Innovation Group to foster its creative industry. The Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions (LEDIP) Office will oversee the grant’s allocation. 

Of the total amount, ₱1.5 million is earmarked for “Lunsod Lunsad: A Call For Creative Proposals towards Building Creative Cities,” while ₱3 million is dedicated to “FiestaKucha: Philippine Regional Creative Festivals.”

“Lunsod Lunsad” encourages cities to propose initiatives that promote creative and innovative endeavors, with the goal of enhancing socio-economic development through local creative artists’ contributions. 

Iloilo City will concentrate on four creative domains: visual, performing, and digital arts, as well as gastronomy. The city is actively identifying its cultural assets through mapping, with a deadline set for December 15.

Once these assets are identified, a comprehensive roadmap for the creative industry will be developed and pursued. The city will also leverage the resources of the Philippine Trade Training Center, an agency attached to the DTI, to provide training opportunities.

According to Velma Jane Lao, head of the LEDIP Office, “This is the best way to reach marginalized sectors with talent. The city, with the help of DTI, can help promote their craft.”

The collaboration between Iloilo City and DTI extends to “FiestaKucha,” which serves as a platform for artists, performers, and creative individuals to exhibit and celebrate their talents and skills. 

The initiative includes showcasing and competitions of Ilonggo cuisines, “Kasadyahan sa Gab-I,” a night dedicated to vibrant culture, artistic experiences, and creative tourism in Western Visayas, and “Istorya Ta,” a series of topics delving into various creative industry subjects.

The grant from DTI highlights the city’s commitment to nurturing its creative industry, supporting local artists and talents, and fostering socio-economic development. It represents a significant step toward building a vibrant and innovative creative landscape in Iloilo City. ◼