The Creative Nation Summit 2024, held on September 30 to October 1 at Rizal Park Hotel, Manila, was a collaborative effort by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and the British Council. The two-day event gathered over 500 industry leaders, policymakers, and creative professionals to discuss strategies for positioning the Philippines as Southeast Asia’s premier creative hub by 2030. With a focus on creative technology, cultural statistics, and creative placemaking, the summit served as a vital platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration between the public and private sectors. Government officials, international experts, and key stakeholders engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening the creative industries and driving economic growth through culture and technology.
The first day of the summit centered on creative technology, emphasizing the role of artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) in shaping the future of the creative sector. Experts shared insights on how these tools could enhance content creation, expand market reach, and improve productivity for Filipino creatives. Live demonstrations and panel discussions showcased emerging technologies that have the potential to revolutionize the industry. Among the key speakers was Graham Hitchen from Loughborough University, who explored the intersection of creativity and technology. The event also underscored the importance of research and development (R&D) in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the creative economy.
On the second day, discussions shifted toward cultural statistics and creative placemaking, highlighting the role of data in shaping policies and ensuring sustainable growth in the creative sector. Speakers from UNESCO, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and the Philippine Statistics Authority presented frameworks for measuring the economic impact of creative industries. The concept of creative placemaking was explored in depth, with Tom Kihl, a UK expert, discussing how integrating arts and culture into urban development can revitalize communities and boost economic opportunities. Policymakers and industry leaders emphasized the need for data-driven strategies to foster social unity, economic prosperity, and cultural preservation.
The Creative Nation Summit 2024 concluded with a reaffirmation of the Philippines’ commitment to developing its creative economy. DTI Undersecretary Rafaelita Aldaba outlined the country’s Creative Industries Development Plan, focusing on building ecosystems, fostering innovation, and expanding market opportunities. Meanwhile, British Council Country Director Lotus Postrado and His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Philippines, Laure Beaufils, reiterated the UK’s support in enhancing global collaboration and cultural exchange. The event marked a significant milestone in strengthening the creative sector, setting the stage for continued partnerships, policy development, and industry growth. As part of the Philippine Creative Industries Month (#WeAreACreativeNation), the summit reinforced the nation’s vision of becoming a global leader in creativity and innovation.