The recent 2nd Cebu Creative and Communication Congress (CCCC), hosted by Southwestern University’s School of Design plus Communication on December 7, 2023, offered an extraordinary platform for students to engage directly with the practical aspects of creative fields such as Communication, Architecture, and Fine Arts.
The congress serves as an annual reminder that careers in communication and the arts are viable and full of opportunities for those passionate about turning their creativity into a profession.
The event at Cebu Making Space went beyond traditional academic settings, connecting students from various institutions across Cebu with the realities and opportunities of creative professions.
CCCC featured students from The University of Cebu, Child Learning Foundation, Mandaue City Comprehensive National High School, and Southwestern University PHINMA and commenced with enlightening talks from industry leaders.
Raul M. Castro, CEO of McCann Worldgroup PH, delved into the art of storytelling and empathy in advertising. Architect Paulo Alcazaren, known for projects like Iloilo’s Esplanade and Singapore’s Orchard Road, discussed the importance of human-centered design in urban spaces. Acclaimed film director Victor Villanueva shared his journey and insights into Cebuano filmmaking, highlighting his work on ‘Patay na si Hesus’.
The highlight of the congress was the hands-on design sprint where students applied their learnings. Tasked with revitalizing the Marcelo Fernan Bridge area, the activity was an exercise in creativity, practical problem-solving, and teamwork.
Additionally, the design sprint allowed students to brainstorm and prototype innovative solutions, showcasing their potential to contribute meaningfully to the community and urban landscape.
Ria Therese Repunte, the executive director of the School of Design and Communication, emphasized the importance of the CCCC in dispelling misconceptions about careers in the creative fields. She said, “Pursuing the field of creatives has always been seen as a gamble. There’s a misconception that there is not much career opportunities in the arts. This is why we organize the CCCC every year—to show to students and Cebuanos in general that communication and the arts is a lucrative career. That they can turn their passion to profession”
The congress serves as an annual reminder that careers in communication and the arts are viable and full of opportunities for those passionate about turning their creativity into a profession.
In collaboration with Cebu Making Space, Selrahco PR, and the United Architects of the Philippines, this year’s congress successfully inspired a new generation of creative professionals. It underscored the value of creativity in the youth of Cebu, setting a precedent for future events that aim to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world applications in the creative industries.
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