Last January 16, 2005, Philippine Offshore Design and Development Corp. (PODD Corp.) celebrated its first year anniversary with an art exhibit entitled “panagtagbo”. ‘panagtagbo” is a cebuano word for “convergence”. The event marked a gathering of minds, talent and art lovers alike and showcased both a “traditional” and a digital art pieces. The images and artworks featured the collections of Cebu’s best and upcoming artists. The works of multi-awarded painters Nunelucio Alvarado, Florencio Cinco and sculptor Dr. Jet Florendo dramatically intermingled with those of PODD Corp.’s own talented digital artists.
The “panagtagbo” exhibit is only the first of many activities that Philippine Offshore Design and Development has planned for the coming years to reaffirm its commitment to the Cebuano people. In an interview with Cebu Daily News last January 25, PODD Corp. General Manager Christine Rom spoke of the Cebuano’s comparative advantage over others in the fields of web design, development and graphic arts. “Cebu has the creative skills needed to tap the growing demand for web designers, artists, writers and developers [in the world market].” Ms. Rom called for Cebu to develop its creative manpower with an emphasis on tapping this specific IT sector as well as calling for much needed government support.
It’s a common knowledge that India ranks highest in the outsourcing of software and software architecture development. Asian countries like China, India and the Philippines are the back offices of major Fortune 500 companies. In fact, I.T. and Outsourcing businesses are said to have a huge contribution in raising India’s growth rate to 9 percent last year. While I.T Outsourcing growth in the Philippines and more specifically Cebu has more or less focused on Customer Support Centers or Call Centers, there is a great need to diversify outsourcing services offered if the Philippines sees itself at par with growing economic tigers India and China. Some people believe that it won’t be long till the Philippines catch up and convince the world market of our enormous potential. So it is crucial for the private and public sector to come together and build on this possibility.
Going back to the “panagtagbo” exhibit, one of the most memorable highlights of the evening was when Honorable Cebu City Vice-Mayor Mike Rama gave an inspiring speech about the significance of Cebuano Arts and Culture. In his speech he talked his passion for the arts. But most of all, he talked about the importance and value of art in Cebu’s culture, history and its progress – past, present and future while stressing the value of supporting events that foster the Cebuano mind – our most valuable asset.
To quote the artist, historian and educator Heather Becker, “Art is a narrative and tells a lot of personal stories. If we don't try to save the history of our culture, of our communities, we lose that forever.” And in this case, Art is not only part of our culture; it may as well be the key to our future.
