The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), in partnership with the Muntinlupa City government, hosted the Kultura Fest Philippine Trade Fair at Festival Mall, Filinvest City, Alabang from Feb. 26 to March 2.
The event showcased the rich heritage and entrepreneurial spirit of Filipino artisans and businesses through its Kultura at Negosyo segment.
During the closing festivities, discussions centered on three landmark policies championed by the DTI: the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Act, the Tatak Pinoy (Proudly Filipino) Act, and the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA).
Local government representatives and regional micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) participated, highlighting the impact of these policies on local industries.
As part of the PCIDA discussion, Lilian G. Salonga, director of the Bureau of Competitive Development and Creative Industries Development Office, led an interactive trivia segment on the nine creative domains recognized under the law. These include audiovisual media, creative services, performing arts, publishing and printed media, design, visual arts, digital interactive media, traditional cultural expressions, and cultural sites.
To make the session more engaging, Salonga distributed limited-edition Malikhaing Pinoy Beep cards, reinforcing the importance of Filipino creativity.
Joining Salonga at the trade fair were Atty. Ma. Teresa G. Faustino of the Bureau of Policy Research and Innovation and Assistant Director Jerico D. Namoro, EnP., of the Bureau of Market Development, Promotions, and OTOP.
“The Malikhaing Pinoy Program (MPP) is more than an initiative—it’s a movement to position the Philippines as Asia’s premier creative hub by 2030,” said DTI Assistant Director Jo-Dann Darong. “Through capacity-building, market access, and digital transformation, we are empowering Filipino creatives to thrive and succeed on the global stage.”
The DTI and the Muntinlupa City government reaffirmed their commitment to developing local talent, supporting MSMEs, and advancing the creative economy through Kultura Fest.
The event served as a platform to educate, inspire, and empower Filipino entrepreneurs while celebrating the country’s vibrant cultural heritage.
