Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue, representing the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), delivered an opening speech at the third iteration of AYO, the Philippine content market event. Addressing the audience of creative minds, she expressed her excitement to be a part of AYO and represent DICT Secretary Ivan John Uy.
AYO is organized by SIKAP, the Creative Content Creators’ Association of the Philippines, which aims to harness Filipino creativity into developing original content for global consumption. SIKAP envision Filipino creators with the ability to sell, negotiate rights, handle distribution and contracts, network with investors, and even enter into co-production or co-development agreements.
Batapa-Sigue highlighted the remarkable milestones achieved by the Philippine creative industry, which include international recognition, the enactment of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA), and the launch of the country’s first creative content market. These achievements have laid a strong foundation for the industry’s growth. She encouraged everyone to work together towards making AYO bloom into a full-fledged Philippine content market by 2025 and beyond.
Over the course of three days, AYO offers various opportunities such as talks, workshops, content jams, and creative networking. Batapa-Sigue urged participants to make the most of these opportunities and become consistent advocates of original Filipino content. She emphasized that it is in their hands to shape the future of the creative landscape.
The creative industry in the Philippines spans nine domains, showcasing the diversity and richness of Filipino talent, from audiovisual media to digital interactive media, creative services, design, publishing, performing arts, visual arts, traditional cultural expressions, and cultural sites. The Filipinos’ range and richness of creative talent hold the potential to become our country’s next major economic force.
Batapa-Sigue noted that the industry generated an astounding PHP 1.6 trillion in revenue in 2022, contributing approximately 7.3 percent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and providing employment for nearly 7 million Filipinos. She highlighted the importance of initiatives like AYO in fostering collaboration and understanding among industry leaders and stakeholders.
Batapa-Sigue highlighted the role of the DICT in ensuring the inclusivity and holistic development of the creative industry. She emphasized the need to strengthen regional linkages and address the needs of local creators and small enterprises beyond major cities. Director Emmy Lou Delfin of the DICT ICT Industry Development Bureau (IIDB) provided further details about the DICT’s programs for the creative industry and its development on Day 3 of the event.
The undersecretary emphasized the significance of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA) in fostering the country’s creative industries. She stressed the need to prioritize and promote the digital capabilities of the industry and its stakeholders, aligning with the Philippine Development Plan’s goals.
Batapa-Sigue acknowledged the impact of technology on content creation, distribution, and consumption. She highlighted the importance of improving internet access in public places, government offices, and geographically isolated areas to support Filipino talents’ success. She expressed confidence that, with coordinated efforts, the Philippines can make significant progress in this area.
In conclusion, Batapa-Sigue united the vision of promoting and showcasing the exceptional talents and perspectives of original Filipino content creators to the world. She emphasized the importance of embracing digitalization, fostering innovation and collaboration, and building a robust community of creatives and creators for the continuous growth and prosperity of the creative industries in the Philippines. The undersecretary urged everyone to unite, inspire, and create as they embark on this remarkable journey together, guided by the spirit of CollabCreate.
Undersecretary Jocelle Batapa-Sigue’s speech at AYO resonated with the audience, igniting a sense of enthusiasm and determination among participants to contribute to the growth and recognition of the Philippine creative industry. With a strong focus on collaboration and innovation, the creative industry is poised to flourish, creating a vibrant and prosperous future for Filipino content creators on a global scale.
Marla de Castro-Rausch serves as the President of the Creative Content Creators Association of the Philippines (SIKAP). Alongside her, Cris Dumlao co-founded the association, while Ria Lu takes on the role of Game Treasurer. Ayeen Pineda holds the position of Executive Director within the Creative Content Creators Association of the Philippines (SIKAP).
Jocelle Batapa Sigue 