Digital Asia Conference in Manila

I was fortunate to have been able to attend "The 2013 Digital Asia Conference: The Orient Rising" today which was held in Manila. Overall, it was a good, big event that gathered various speakers from around the world who are experts in their specialized fields. Together, they were able to form a big picture on the importance of digital mediums--particularly out-of-home (OOH)--as well as some global trends.

It's actually the first time this sort of seminar was organised in the country, and I do think succeeding conferences after this will be more interesting. Frankly, I think this is a conference that marketers should  consider attending in the future. As marketing professionals and advertisers in Manila, we've only scratched the surface when it comes to executions outside of traditional media (TV, Radio, Print)--that is, digital media which is taking other countries by storm.

I'm sure some people would think: "Seriously, digital media placements in the Philippines? Is that even feasible?"--which was one of my questions in mind.

Granted, the Philippines is a 3rd world country with roughly 10% of its population belonging the ABC social economic class. However, we have learned today that digital media is indeed an avenue that still has potential in our country. To explain:

(1) majority of internet users in the Philippines belong to those below 30 years old--and this population grows year on year,
(2) internet is the 2nd medium next to TV--performing better than radio and print,
(3) as a whole, social networking is the top activity done by Filipino users on the internet, and
(4) access to internet through smart phones are seen to increase as prices of these gadgets are dropping (Best of luck to Apple, then!).

As a marketer, I do believe in the potential of digital media in the country. And when we say digital media--this isn't just social networks. It also involves utilizing smart phones and its applications, as well as digital or interactive OOH. Digital media is seen to grow in our country--and I am honestly hopeful for the upcoming developments in the Philippines given our good economic standing this year compared other Asian countries.

In foresight, it looks like marketing here in Manila will be very dynamic and more exciting in the near future.

The 2013 Digital Asia Conference: The Orient Rising - held in 1Esplanade

Thought I should share this photo of my ticket to the conference. 

One of the speakers, Sec. Sonny Coloma