THE Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) have joined forces to provide robust support for the highly anticipated Philippine Blockchain Week (PBW) 2023. The event is set to take place from September 19 to 21, 2023, at the Marriott Grand Ballroom, Newport World Resorts.
During a recent press conference, DICT Director Emmy Lou Delfin and DTI Director Jo-Dann Darong highlighted the crucial role that Philippine Blockchain Week will play in advancing collaboration, fostering innovation, and accelerating digital transformation throughout the country.
Philippine Blockchain Week is expected to attract a diverse array of participants from various industries and regions worldwide, facilitating the convergence of influential leaders within the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors.
Under the theme “BRKOUT,” this year’s event aims to inspire individuals to transcend conventional boundaries, break free from comfort zones, abandon outdated habits, seize new opportunities, and emerge as pioneers in the dynamic blockchain ecosystem. The program will feature comprehensive discussions encompassing topics such as blockchain, fintech, the metaverse, regulation, artificial intelligence, privacy, and decentralized finance (DeFi), among other relevant subjects.
Director Delfin revealed that the DICT will spearhead an educational initiative called “Blockchain 101,” which seeks to enlighten thousands of students in the National Capital Region about the expansive career prospects and potential within the blockchain industry. Additionally, focus group discussions will be conducted with government officials to promote the adoption of blockchain technology for secure storage of government data.
DTI Director Darong echoed his support for a comprehensive approach, emphasizing the importance of integrating blockchain technology across all sectors of society. He assured attendees that the DTI is fully committed to endorsing initiatives aimed at propelling the Philippines to become a more competitive and innovative nation through blockchain integration.
In line with this vision, the Philippine Blockchain Week serves as an ideal platform for nurturing creativity and innovation, aligning seamlessly with the DTI’s inaugural celebration of the Philippine Creative Industry Month in September.
Dr. Donald Lim, Founding President of the Blockchain Council of the Philippines (BCP) and lead Convenor of Philippine Blockchain Week, expressed his optimism that the Philippines is on its way to becoming a global blockchain capital. He emphasized that securing government support and fostering collaboration are crucial factors in driving widespread blockchain adoption and spurring innovation within the country. Dr. Lim underscored the importance of the Philippine government’s open-minded approach, positioning the nation favorably to become the leading blockchain capital in Asia.
In addition to government partnerships, Philippine Blockchain Week announced a groundbreaking collaboration with internationally renowned Filipino fashion designer Michael Cinco, who is based in Dubai. Cinco, renowned for dressing Hollywood celebrities and royalty, will make his debut in the blockchain space through a collaboration with PBW to host the innovative Metaverse Fashion Gala. This event will highlight the seamless convergence of fashion and the metaverse, generating excitement and illustrating the immense potential for various industries to explore the transformative power of blockchain technology.
The event will also feature a venture capital-startup matchmaking event in collaboration with CNN Philippines’ esteemed business reality show, “The Final Pitch.” Furthermore, in partnership with Tier One Entertainment, a captivating gaming expo will be organized, drawing in gaming enthusiasts, streamers, and cosplayers for interactive meet and greets and engaging gaming exhibitions. Lastly, the globally anticipated Web 3 awards show, the NFTY Awards, will make its live global finalist announcement at the event.
An integral part of the program will be the Philippine Block Awards, which aim to recognize exceptional leaders in the finance, technology, and business sectors for their significant contributions to promoting and fostering blockchain adoption within the country.
