Makati City, Philippines — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC) Secretariat officially sealed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Canva Philippines, the global all-in-one visual communication platform, in a signing ceremony held on 19 August 2025 at Canva’s second-largest campus worldwide, located in Makati City.

The partnership underscores a shared vision to strengthen the Philippine creative industries by equipping Filipino creatives, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs with world-class digital tools and opportunities to thrive in the global economy.

The signing was represented by key officials from both parties, including DTI Competitiveness and Innovation Group Supervising Head and Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza D. Bautista, PCIDC Secretariat Acting Executive Director Lilian G. Salonga, Canva Southeast Asia Regional Lead Yani Hornilla-Donato, and Canva Country Director Maisie Littua.

“Through this collaboration, we will bring initiatives such as creative workshops, mentoring for creative entrepreneurs, and caravans for digital literacy and programs that will take design skills and creative opportunities to communities nationwide,” said Assistant Secretary Bautista.

Through this MOU, DTI and Canva will collaborate on initiatives such as capacity-building programs, design and entrepreneurship training, and creative showcases that spotlight Filipino ingenuity. Canva’s global reach and digital-first solutions will amplify DTI’s efforts in creating an enabling environment for the creative economy.

“We believe that we share a deep belief in the purpose of design, technology, and creativity to uplift communities, grow businesses, and create a lasting economic impact. At the end of the day, I think this partnership, beyond what it can do for DTI, beyond what it can do for Canva, I’m excited most for what it can do for the Philippines and the Filipinos.” said Yani Hornilla-Donato, Canva Southeast Asia Regional Lead.

Following the signing, DTI officials were given a tour of the Canva Manila Campus, Canva’s vibrant office in Makati designed to reflect creativity, collaboration, and Filipino culture. The tour highlighted Canva’s innovative workplace features and how it fosters a supportive environment for teams building digital-first solutions for the world.

At the core of this partnership, DTI and Canva seek to elevate Filipino creativity by empowering micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) through design tools, while nurturing creative talents across sectors. This MOU forms part of the Malikhaing Pinoy Program, a flagship initiative by the Philippine government being implemented by the DTI and as the Chair of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council. It is aimed at elevating Filipino creativity and advancing creative agenda, spotlighting Filipino talent, cultural heritage, and ingenuity. For the latest updates and upcoming strategic partnerships, follow the official Facebook page of the DTI Malikhaing Pinoy. ♦

Date of Release: 19 August 2025