CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — Featuring a wide array of exhibits and programs spanning nine distinct creative industry domains, the city government of Cagayan de Oro, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-10, and Kagay-an Misamis Creative Council (KaMi Creative) launched the MADE (Makers, Manufacturers, Artists, and Artisan Designers Exposition) in the CDO showcase on December 6–8 at the Ayala Malls Centrio.
MADE in CDO is a gathering of makers, artists, artisans, and designers celebrating local creativity, talent, and innovation. The event also aims to nurture and empower creative MSMEs from the city and Misamis Oriental.
Representing CDO Mayor Rolando Uy in the opening ceremony on December 6, Councilor George Goking said, “MADE in CDO. This is a very nice word; MADE, which stands for Makers, Manufacturers, Artists, and Artisan Designers Exposition, celebrates the dynamism of our local creative economy.”
He added that the expo aims to foster cultural exchange, stimulate economic activity, and spotlight a rich creative heritage.
MADE in CDO also features a series of talks ranging from design communities, spaces, stories, gastronomy, music, performing arts, films, visual arts, literature, museums, fashion, and digital interactivity.
PCIDA and the creative domains
Republic Act 11904, or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, protects and strengthens the rights and capacities of creative firms, artists, artisans, creators, indigenous cultural communities, and other stakeholders.
The nine creative domains include audio-visual media, creative services, cultural sites, design, digital interactive media, and performing arts; publishing and printed media; traditional cultural expressions; and visual arts.
Speaking on behalf of DTI-10 Regional Director Ruel Paclipan, Assistant Regional Director Almer R. Masillones stated that the Lunsod Lungsad initiative aligns with the objectives of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, also known as PCIDA.
“PCIDA is a welcome legislative development that aims to develop the growth of the Philippine creative industries by protecting and empowering creative firms, artists, artisans, creators, workers, indigenous and cultural communities, content providers, and other stakeholders in the creative industries,” said Masillones.
She also expressed that it has been two years since PCIDA became law and that the country now sees significant progress in terms of supporting and strengthening the entities within the creative industry so they can thrive.
For her part, DTI-Misamis Oriental Provincial Director and KaMi Creative Chairperson Jesusa M. Abear said, “This event is also proof of the unity and collaboration among Cagayan de Oro’s creative powerhouses.”
Funded under DTI’s Lunsod Lunsad program, MADE in CDO is in collaboration with the city government of Cagayan de Oro, specifically the Oro Trade and Investment Promotion Center.
Abear said, “This flagship event highlights the incredible talent and creativity of our local community. We celebrate our heritage, spark innovation, and inspire a new generation of creatives.”
The creatives
Christopher L. Gomez, an artist and entrepreneur, co-chairs KaMi Creative and emphasizes that the future of the creative industry lies in creativity, as its resources in the region are expanding significantly.
He said creatives have united to come up with a showcase of their best works with the support of local government and DTI. “The local government’s part in maximizing local talents is essential for growth. We are all together in this process.”
Among the exhibitors are known CDO artists Jake Vamenta and Michelle Lua, Michael Bacol, Nic Aca, Oscar Floirendo, and many more.
Creator-entrepreneur Jerome Bayawa of TeamGraphika mainly designs logos but recently explored the world of 3D printing.
“Now we’re into 3D-printed toys and custom 3D prints as well. Any kind of 3D print we can design and print,” says Bayawa.
He said there are a lot of creative influencers in the city and believes in their potential to reach a wider market, especially in the 3D printing industry.
“I believe that more events like MADE in CDO will help the creative industry get more traction. It will give us more reach at the local market,” Bayawa said.
Representing CDO City Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez, former Nazareth Punong Barangay Max Rodriguez delivered the vice mayor’s message of support, saying, “Events like MADE in CDO play a crucial role in highlighting the skills, talent, and creativity of Kagay-anons; it provides a platform for makers, artists, and designers to showcase their work and reach wider markets.”
The event schedules for MADE in CDO include talks, concerts, spoken poetry, an art exhibit, play excerpts, a fashion show, workshops, performances, and more. (SAYU/PIA-10)
