Text by Cherry Madrideo
Photos courtesy of Department of Trade and Industry

Ehcel Hurna of the Information, Publication, and Public Affairs Office (IPPAO) received recognition as one of the eight outstanding scholars of the pioneering class of Malikhaing Pinoy: Online Content Creation Class held from Feb. 3 to 7, 2025, in Makati City.

Malikhaing Pinoy is the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) holistic approach to addressing the constraints and barriers of creative industries and to help improve the economy and employment contribution to support economic recovery and growth.

The five-day program conducted comprehensive training, workshops, and mentorship to its scholars, providing technical skills, deepening their understanding of industry standards, and refining their craft to achieve mastery under the guidance of film experts.

In the culminating event, DTI-Competitiveness and Innovation Group (CIG) Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista underscored the importance of digital storytelling in shaping meaningful connections and driving positive change.

Veteran Filipino filmmakers Leo Martinez, Raymond Red, Ricky Orellana, Mel Bacani, Senen Dimaguila, and Jolevs Domingo served as mentors and lecturers. The 23 scholars were online influencers, vloggers, social media content managers, freelancers, and government and private employees.