QUEZON CITY–On 24 September 2023, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Fred Pascual together with Senator Imee R. Marcos opened the doors of the Young Creatives Challenge (YC2) to all aspiring Filipino creative youth. The DTI Chief recognized that young Filipino creatives are the torchbearers of the Philippines’ aspiration to present Filipino talent globally.

Secretary Pascual said, “Our beloved Philippines has always been a cradle of artistry and ingenuity. Now, we set forth on a voyage to unearth and honor the brilliance of our young compatriots. The Young Creatives Challenge transcends a mere contest or program. It is an ode to human creativity, a salute to the boundless imagination, and an affirmation of the infinite horizons awaiting our young Filipinos’ vibrant minds.”

In support of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA), the trade and industry chief highlighted that the Department remains firm in its commitment to promoting the advancement of the creative industry. Through game-changing programs and initiatives, the DTI is actively working to ensure that the creative industry will be globally competitive and innovative allowing it to be a key driver of the country’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

The YC2 is a competition which showcases the creativity of the Filipino youth organized by DTI through the support of Senator Imee Marcos. It was created to inspire, recognize, and showcase Filipino talents in the fields of Songwriting, Screenwriting, Playwriting, Graphic Novel, Animation, Game Development, and Online Content Creation. 

During the launch, DTI Undersecretary for Competitiveness and Innovation Rafaelita Aldaba presented the mechanics of the respective competitions. The launch was also attended by known Filipino creatives in their respective fields including Noel Cabangon, Suzette Doctolero, Jon Zamar, Marlyn Montano, and James Lo.

Additionally, Secretary Pascual commended Senator Marcos’ vision of conceiving a platform where Filipino youths’ talents will be nurtured and championed. Through the Senator and the DTI’s collective efforts, the trade and industry chief expressed confidence that the country’s creative industries will reach greater heights presenting Filipino masterpieces in the worldwide scene.

The DTI Chief encouraged all creative Filipino youth to join the YC2, stressing, “To our budding songwriters, screenwriters, playwrights, graphic novel artists, animators, and game developers, this is your moment. I invite you all to seize this moment. Let your creativity shine through. Trust in the might of your ideas. Your journey starts here, and the world eagerly awaits the talents you will unfold.” ♦

Date of release: 25 September 2023