Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said Tuesday esports and game development have evolved from being viewed as mere entertainment into industries that create jobs, spur innovation and fuel economic growth.

Solidum said gaming has become a multibillion-dollar global industry that offers career and business opportunities across various fields.

“Behind every game are programmers, artists, writers, designers, engineers, marketers, data analysts and business professionals,” he said at the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Game On Talks and Pitching Session.

Solidum said the Philippine esports industry was valued at PHP1.47 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach PHP5.5 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 23 percent.

He added that the Philippines, with about 43 million gamers, is among Southeast Asia’s largest and fastest-growing gaming markets and has become a preferred outsourcing hub for game development, animation and engineering services.

Solidum said more local independent studios are now producing original games inspired by Filipino culture and folklore.

He urged stakeholders to view esports and game development as platforms for showcasing the country’s culture, traditions and creativity.

“With our Esports and Game Development Program, and our initiatives and investments for the creative sector, we believe that one day, this sector will bring about more enterprises that will create more job opportunities for skilled, creative Filipinos,” he said. (PNA)