Creative economy

This near-sighted Ibaloy writer won’t belabor the fact anymore that when it comes to creativity, Filipinos are among the most creative people populating this Third Rock from the Sun.
As is the practice nowadays, I Googled the meaning of creativity and thus: “The use of imagination or original ideas, especially in the production of artistic work.”
It is also “the tendency to generate or recognize ideas, alternatives, or possibilities that may be useful in solving problems, communicating with others, and entertaining ourselves and others,” and a myriad other definitions, but you get the drift.
So, in this case, Filipinos are truly world- class when it comes to creative endeavors. Only let me posit that creatives also thrive in environments that are conducive and supportive to their imaginative work.
Unfortunately, not a few of our most creative countrymen, like artists in the traditional and digital arts, had to leave our shores where their genius can flower to its full potential in countries that are conducive and supportive to their talents.
I recently read an article by the policy circle.org citing estimates from the United Nations that the creative economy contributes just over 6.1 percent to global gross domestic product (GDP), averaging between two percent and seven percent of national GDPs around the world and that creative economy industries generate annual revenues of over $2 trillion and account for nearly 50 million jobs worldwide.
Another article in unctad.org states that the creative economy is essentially considered to be the knowledge-based economic activities upon which creative industries are based. These creative industries include advertising, architecture, arts and crafts, design, fashion, film, video, photography, music, performing arts, publishing, research and development, software, computer games, electronic publishing, TV/radio, among others.
Again, let me stress that many Filipinos excel in most, if not all, of these creative industries. And again, this humble appeal for our beloved democratic government ruled by honorable leaders to formulate and implement policies that offer greater support to those involved in the creative sector in order for them to prosper, choose to stay here and contribute even more to our fledgling economy. Mabuhay!
May our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, continue to bless and keep us all safe.