The Innovations in Multimedia, Animation, and Game Design Development (IMAGDD) 2026 Academic Roadshow officially opened today, April 24, and will run until April 25, 2026, bringing together academic institutions, local industry players, national innovation leaders, and potential investors. Hosted by the Ateneo de Naga University through the Pioneers of Ignatian Expressive Electronic Arts and Learning Society (PIXELS), organized by the Game Development Association of the Philippines (GDAP) through its Naga City Chapter, and partnered with the City Government of Naga through the Investment and Tourism Promotions Office, Board of Investments, Department of Trade and Industry-Camarines Sur, Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology, Naga College Foundation, and Ryne Media, the two-day event operates under the theme, “Designing the Next Reality: Human Creativity, Emerging Technology, and Sustainable Interactive Media.”
The opening day drew strong participation from the region’s emerging talent pool, with attendance from Digital Illustration and Animation, Computer Science, and Engineering students representing the host university, Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology, and Naga College Foundation.
Welcoming the attendees, Hon. Councilor Wilfredo Jude “Toto” A. Diokno, Committee Chairperson for Investment, Trade, and Economic Enterprise, represented the City Government of Naga. His presence underscored the local government’s active engagement in cultivating the digital creative sector. Institutional and structural support for the growing industry was further affirmed through messages delivered by Fr. Aristotle C. Dy, SJ, President of Ateneo de Naga University, and Percival Jay Ablan, Provincial Director of DTI Camarines Sur
The roadshow was officially declared open by Ms. Ria Lu, CEO of Leveret Group and President of GDAP. Following her address, Alyssa Rose SJ. Absalon and Delilah Asley R. Concepcion from the Board of Investments delivered an invitational message titled “Youth Can Make It Happen,” emphasizing the strategic role of young professionals in driving economic momentum. The opening ceremonies were then capped off by Alvin Juban, Studio Head of Synergy88 and Chairperson of GDAP. Juban expressed strong support for the academic roadshow by highlighting the “university effect” as a critical driver for cultivating local talent and sustaining industry growth.
Functioning as a strategic convergence point for the interactive entertainment sector, the IMAGDD roadshow provides attendees with exclusive insights into the latest trends in game development. Over the two action-packed days, the event facilitates direct engagement through seminars, panel discussions, exhibits, and hands-on workshops led by key industry leaders, including:
- Ria Lu, President of GDAP and CEO of Leveret Group
- John Jester Tesorero, Vice President of GDAP and Philippines Country Manager of Razer Gold
- Solon Chen, Studio Manager and Co-Founder of Kooapps Philippines Corp and Board Member of GDAP
- Alvin Juban, Board Member of the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines
- Raymond Tan, Head Instructor of Musings Art Academy
- Steven Jan Cadena, Senior Game Designer and 2D Artist
- Kristopher Louie Raphael, 2D Game Art Director
The roadshow bridges the gap between academic preparation and industry demands by featuring an on-the-spot hiring initiative conducted by GDAP industry members.
Written by: Xavier C. Ignacio | ITPO
