The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) concluded its Malikhaing Pinoy: Music Business Masterclass on April 5 with a culminating concert and industry networking mixer at the Meridian International Business, Arts and Technology (MINT) College.
The event marked the end of months-long intensive training for 81 emerging music entrepreneurs from across the Philippines.
The evening opened with a high-energy performance by DWTA, setting the tone for a night of creativity, collaboration, and industry engagement.
A dedicated segment followed, featuring artists managed by the program’s scholars — a showcase of the hands-on skills and business acumen developed throughout the training.
Performers included Eliza Maturan, LEYO, Frisbee, KYLEUX + k1ko, and COSTA CASHMAN + BRGR, each delivering distinctive musical perspectives that captivated the audience.
Beyond performances, the event also served as a networking platform that enabled scholars to connect directly with key industry figures.
MINT College played a central role in facilitating personalized introductions between scholars and guests, helping turn classroom knowledge into actionable career opportunities.
As a result, several scholars secured concrete breakthroughs — including a distribution deal and preliminary talks for a label partnership.
Among the prominent guests were Maan Atienza (General Manager, Sony Music Philippines), Thursday Alciso (General Manager, FILSCAP), and Kelley Mangahas (A&R Director, Warner Music).
Other key attendees included Andrew de Castro (Country Manager, The Orchard), Jonathan Manalo (Audio Content Head, ABS-CBN Music), and Kiko Salazar (Old School Records).
Representatives from Billboard Philippines, GMA Music, Polyeast, Universal Records, Ditto Music, and Karpos Multimedia were also present.
Also attending were mentors and instructors of the Malikhaing Pinoy program, including Lachmi Baviera (Country Manager, OneRPM), Mike Constantino (Founder and CEO, Homonym), and Atty. Micah “Bob” Ecarma (Representative, ACCRA Law).
MINT College President Tonsito Umali highlighted the institution’s dedication to supporting Filipino creatives.
“MINT College is always open for collaborations to help the development of the music industry,” said Umali.
Director Lilian G. Salonga, officer-in-charge of DTI’s Creative Industries Development Office, echoed this sentiment.
“The DTI believes in your talent and potential and Filipino music’s bright future. Together, let’s build it,” she said.
As the final notes played, the concert capped not only the program’s academic achievements but also its role in strengthening the foundation of the local music ecosystem.
