Cebu's Creative Sector Receives Major Training Grant
The Cebuanimation Network, a consortium led by Mata Technologies Inc., has been awarded a significant P3.43-million training grant to empower the animation and game development industry in Central Visayas. This funding was formally granted on October 27, 2025, to Mata Technologies CEO Erika Dell Sancho under the SkillsUpNet Philippines (SunPH) program.
A Competitive Selection Process
The grant places the Cebuanimation Network among an elite group, as it was one of only 11 approved grantees selected from a pool of 36 proposals submitted from various priority sectors across the Philippines. This competitive selection highlights the project's potential impact on the regional economy.
The SunPH program is a collaborative effort jointly implemented by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The Philippine Trade Training Center acts as the program's implementing agency.
Beyond Technical Skills: Building Business Acumen
The funding is earmarked for comprehensive training programs designed to elevate both the technical prowess and business capabilities of creative professionals. Erika Dell Sancho revealed that the project's second phase will integrate critical business components, including finance, taxation, marketing, and enterprise management. This holistic approach ensures that artists and developers are equipped not just to create, but also to build sustainable and competitive enterprises.
Marivic Aguilar, DTI Cebu Office-In-charge Provincial Director, praised the achievement, stating that it reflects the creativity and collaboration inherent in Cebu's animation community. She affirmed DTI's ongoing commitment, saying, "DTI will continue to support our creative professionals in developing new skills and turning their passions into competitive enterprises."
Aligning Cebu with Global Standards
Comprising 11 local studios and firms, the Cebuanimation Network is a powerhouse specializing in 2D and 3D animation, visual effects, immersive technology, and game development. The primary mission of this network is to elevate local talent to meet global industry standards, thereby cementing Central Visayas' reputation as a leading creative and innovation hub in the Philippines.
