Bacolod: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Negros Occidental is collaborating with local government units, national government agencies, and the private sector to celebrate Negrense creativity through a series of activities marking the Philippine Creative Industries Month this September.
According to Philippines News Agency, DTI-Negros Occidental Provincial Director Lynna Joy Cardinal stated that the month-long observance is not just a celebration, but also a movement that honors the Negrense identity and drives progress for the communities. She emphasized the pride in Negros Occidental's rich cultural heritage and creative expressions, which range from traditional crafts and folk performances to digital arts, fashion, gastronomy, and innovative design.
The celebration includes the launch of the One Town, One Product Store and Learning Centers in Hinigaran town on September 1, and in the cities of Sipalay and Kabankalan on September 11 and 12, respectively. Additionally, a variety of activities such as creative placemaking workshops, development plan cultural agendas in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, art exhibitions, film screenings, creative talks, capacity-building seminars, fashion events, choir workshops, and a Slow Food market are planned.
Republic Act 11904, or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, established the PCI Development Council, convened by the DTI, to lead the development and promotion of the creative industries in the country. This law declares September as the Philippine Creative Industries Month to promote the goods, products, and services of the Philippine creative industries and to raise awareness of their role in nation-building and socio-economic advancement.
RA 11904 also outlines the government policy to promote and support the development of the Philippine creative industries by protecting and strengthening the rights and capacities of creative firms, artists, artisans, creators, workers, indigenous cultural communities, content providers, and stakeholders in the creative industries.
