On September 18, 2025, the District 21 Hotel in Iloilo City buzzed with energy as the Online Slingshot Region 6 (OSR6): Western Visayas Digital Creatives Conference brought together artists, innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders to spotlight how creativity is shaping the region’s place in the global digital content industry.
Now in its sixth year, OSR6 has grown into a premier platform for collaboration among startups, creatives, the academe, industry players, and government. This year’s edition—co-presented by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) VI, Innovate Iloilo, and Mulave Studios—made history by spotlighting the creative industries for the very first time. The conference also aligned with the celebration of Philippine Creative Industries Month and was a proud highlight of the Western Visayas Innovative Startup Fest 2025.
Creative Industries in the Spotlight
In her opening message, DTI VI OIC-Regional Director Ma. Dinda R. Tamayo reflected on the agency’s journey since OSR6’s launch in 2020.
“We started our support to startups way back in 2020 through this very platform, the Online Slingshot Region 6. We made significant strides in advancing government support to startups and innovators amidst the health crisis, and surviving it gave us the courage to continue.”
For 2025, OSR6 expanded to shine a light on the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (RA 11904), recognizing fields like digital arts, film, audiovisual media, traditional cultural expressions, and visual and performing arts as vital sectors in nation-building and global competitiveness.
Tamayo also highlighted the Moonshot TNK Pitching Competition, which empowered startups to develop solutions addressing challenges in health, poverty, education, and the environment—showcasing how creativity and innovation can drive inclusive growth.
Learning, Growth, and Creative Journeys
The heart of the conference was a powerful lineup of four key speakers, each offering insights that bridged talent, innovation, and industry:
- Jo-Dann Darong, Acting Deputy Executive Director of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Council Secretariat and Assistant Director of the DTI Competitiveness and Innovation Group, laid out national strategies to position Filipino creativity as a global export. His presentation emphasized that Filipino talent, when equipped with the right support and platforms, can compete on the world stage.
- Marianne Tajanlangit-Bebit of the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) guided participants on intellectual property rights. She reminded creatives that protecting copyrights, trademarks, and licensing is critical, as many Filipino artists lose ownership of their work to international clients.
- Oscar-nominated animator Bobby Lee Pontillas (credits include Moana, Wreck-It Ralph, Rio, and Frozen) inspired participants with his story of working in global studios. He encouraged young artists to embrace their roots: “Make art that can only come from you. Lean into your culture, your story, your voice—because that’s what will set you apart in the world.”
- Ruel Benliro Jr., COO of Mulave Studios, announced the relaunch of Mulave Academy, which will offer new professional courses in animation, digital marketing, and content creation. He emphasized the academy’s mission to nurture local talent while building stronger connections to global opportunities.
Highlights of OSR6 2025
Beyond the sessions, OSR6 was filled with dynamic exchanges and inspiring moments:
- A ceremonial Pledge of Commitment saw representatives from DTI, DICT, DOST, TESDA, PCCI Iloilo, the academe, and the Animation Council of the Philippines unite to support Western Visayas’ growing creative economy.
- More than 100 participants engaged in workshops and panels on animation production, business strategies for creative professionals, and IP rights.
- Universities like Central Philippine University (CPU) and West Visayas State University (WVSU) joined the conversation, underscoring the importance of bridging academia and industry. CPU’s Ma. Christina Quijano spoke about providing students with tools and exposure despite financial barriers, while WVSU’s Ma. Beth Concepcion emphasized monetization opportunities for creative talent.
- The Artist’s Alley at the Diamond Hall lobby showcased original works from local creatives, including WeavingCat x Vinny.nini, Dewsi x Hermit, Pasyon Comics, Drowzy DLC, and Renderu x Weezsp—giving participants a glimpse of the region’s emerging artistry.
A Collective Vision for the Future
The day closed with a unifying message from Renan Herrera of Innovate Iloilo, who reminded participants that the future of Western Visayas as a creative hub is a shared responsibility:
“Let us continue to build on the connections, conversations, and the creativity that started here. The future of Western Visayas as a creative hub does not rest on one organization alone—it rests in all of us, working together.”
Western Visayas as a Rising Creative Hub
From government pledges and industry partnerships to grassroots artistry and inspiring personal journeys, OSR6 2025 made it clear: Western Visayas is not only a home for innovation but also a rising hub for creativity with global impact.
By embracing identity, protecting intellectual property, expanding education, and strengthening industry linkages, the region is laying the groundwork for a vibrant creative economy—one that is future-ready, resilient, and proudly Filipino.
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