#MINDANAO
A recent report from the Philippine Statistics Authority shows that our creative industries have continued to grow.
(https://psa.gov.ph/statistics/creative-economy). This sector of the economy comprises media, arts, design, cultural and artistic performance, and related sub-sectors including publishing, galleries, digital services, and museums.
According to the report, this sector’s value has grown to ₱1.72 trillion, a 6.9 increase from 2022. It also saw an increase in employed persons to 7.62 million, up by four percent from the previous year. These numbers show continuous growth and reveal just how much potential it holds to bring value and opportunity to local economies.
This is important for the rest of the economy since it adds value to things we make and grow. For instance, adding artistic elements to our locally made chocolates and fruit-based confections adds mystique, innovation, and value, especially for new markets looking for unique products. I can imagine the European markets looking for new products that will tease the flavor palettes and interest its population. We can make many of them in Mindanao.
I believe our creative industries will continue to grow for two reasons. The first is that being a Southeast Asian country means that we are the result of a diverse set of influences from various cultures that have visited us even before we were colonized. Our recent colonial history also exposed us to various influences apparent in our cuisine and clothing. These influences form the melting pot that is our culture, making it a rich resource for new ideas and concepts.
A second factor is that our large young population is digitally connected. When more young people are able to access the internet and participate in activities and endeavors that bring out their innate creativity, they will thrive. That said, I do not share the opinion of some that today's young people, particularly the so-called Generation Z, are lacking in imagination, drive and skill. On the contrary, I believe many of them can think fast and do various tasks with great efficiency when compared to many of us from previous generations. They also have a high level of confidence to express themselves. These traits are among the building blocks of the creative economy. Without this confidence, innovation and creativity cannot grow as much as it should.
As more of the young participate in the industry by their entry into the workforce or through startup businesses, the economy will grow. The growing interest in venture capital will also drive investment in creative industries as these endeavors capitalize on innovative and creative enterprises. The growing digital economy will make this happen. I believe the Visayas’ and Mindanao's diverse cultures will contribute significantly to the industry’s growth. Growing the creative industries will mean more opportunities for Filipinos.
I am confident that the government and the private sector, particularly business groups, will begin to harness the potential of the various products and services generated by the creative economy.
Couples for Christ
I am congratulating Couples for Christ Mindanao for a successful, spirit-filled Mindanao Leaders Weekend Retreat last March 16 to 18 at the Aquilino Pimentel Jr. Convention Center in Cagayan de Oro. This annual event brings together leaders of the family-oriented Catholic renewal community to reflect and be inspired by God’s word. This is a major event that gets members excited about the work to bring Jesus to families needing hope and inspiration from the Holy Spirit.