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Lloyd Kelly Miralles chevron_right
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Level Up: Empowering the Next Generation of Filipino Game Developers
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has launched the "Level Up: eSports Game Dev Challenge," a nationwide competition aimed at nurturing the next generation of Filipino game developers. This initiative is part of DOST's commitment to advancing the country's digital economy and fostering innovation in the gaming industry.
The challenge encourages students, aspiring developers, and early professionals to create original eSports-themed games that showcase Filipino culture, creativity, and technical skills. Participants are provided with mentorship, resources, and opportunities to collaborate with industry experts, ensuring that their projects are both innovative and market-ready.
One notable success from this initiative is the team from Mapúa Malayan Colleges Mindanao, who developed "Cordillera Chronicles," an RPG inspired by Cordilleran folklore. Their game captivated judges with its deep cultural narrative and innovative gameplay, earning them the national championship at the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) 2024. The team's victory highlights the potential of Filipino developers to create globally competitive games that reflect the nation's rich cultural heritage.
In addition to the competition, DOST has partnered with various organizations to organize events like the Philippine GameDev Expo (PGDX) 2025, scheduled from July 25 to 27 at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. This expo aims to spotlight Filipino talent, promote original game content, and strengthen industry linkages both locally and internationally. The event will feature workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities for developers to connect with potential partners and investors.
Through initiatives like the Level Up: eSports Game Dev Challenge and PGDX 2025, DOST is playing a pivotal role in transforming the Philippine gaming industry from a service-based sector to a hub of original intellectual property creation. These efforts are expected to contribute significantly to the country's digital economy, which is projected to surpass US $2.6 billion by 2027.
For more information on the Level Up: eSports Game Dev Challenge and upcoming events, visit the official DOST website and the PGDX official site.
source: DOST Philippines