The Communication Design Association of the Philippines (CDAP) is a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the discipline and practice of communication design in the Philippines. Established to serve as a collective platform for Filipino designers, educators, students, and industry professionals, CDAP plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of design practice, education, and advocacy in the country.
Core Business and Objectives
CDAP operates as a professional association with the primary goal of promoting awareness, education, and ethical standards in communication design. Its initiatives center on connecting design professionals and institutions, facilitating knowledge sharing, and enhancing design literacy across sectors. It serves as a critical conduit for collaboration among creative professionals in visual communication, branding, digital design, and education.
Product and Service Offerings
While CDAP does not manufacture or sell physical products, it offers a wide array of professional services and programs, including:
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Educational Workshops and Seminars
Conducts nationwide design-focused training programs for students and professionals. -
Design Advocacy and Policy Engagement
Collaborates with government and educational institutions to influence design education standards and policies. -
Networking Events and Conferences
Organizes national conventions such as “CDAP National Conference,” a premier platform for exchanging design knowledge and practices. -
Competitions and Recognitions
Hosts design contests and recognizes outstanding contributions in communication design to elevate local talents.
Specialization and Core USP
CDAP’s unique position lies in its multidisciplinary approach to communication design. Unlike commercial design studios, CDAP’s strength is in advocacy, standard-setting, and education. It acts as an enabler and gatekeeper of design ethics, practices, and professional development in the Philippine context.
Its core USPs include:
- Nationwide Educational Reach: With members from over 30 academic institutions and professional bodies, CDAP has unparalleled access to design learners and educators.
- Policy Influence: CDAP regularly consults with CHED (Commission on Higher Education) on curriculum standards for communication design.
- Inclusive Membership Model: The organization includes students, faculty, and professionals, ensuring holistic representation.
Financials
As a nonprofit organization, CDAP’s financials are not publicly disclosed in traditional corporate terms. However, the association sustains operations through a mix of:
- Membership fees
- Event participation revenues
- Grants and sponsorships from educational and corporate partners
Its budget is primarily directed toward education initiatives, design research, and national events.
Shipment and International Exposure
Being an advocacy and membership-based organization, CDAP does not engage in export or product shipment. However, it facilitates international exchange through:
- Design summits with ASEAN and global institutions
- Participation in international design conventions and academic partnerships
Target Market
CDAP targets three primary segments:
- Design Students – Through workshops, mentorships, and competitions.
- Educators and Academic Institutions – By helping standardize and enhance the design curriculum.
- Design Professionals and Studios – Offering professional development and networking opportunities.
Capabilities
- Organizing National Events – Successfully conducts large-scale conferences like the “CDAP Design Summit.”
- Policy and Curriculum Development – Acts as a consultant for design education in the Philippines.
- Community Building – Maintains active engagement across social media and member networks.
Certifications and Compliance
CDAP is a recognized nonprofit entity in the Philippines and operates in compliance with national nonprofit registration standards. It aligns its educational offerings with CHED guidelines and partners with accredited universities and colleges.
Customer Testimonials
Due to its nonprofit nature, CDAP receives endorsements rather than commercial testimonials. Notable commendations include:
- "CDAP is a vital partner in curriculum development for creative disciplines." — Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
- "Their national conferences provide unmatched value for design students and professionals alike." — De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, School of Design and Arts
Major Achievements
- Launched the CDAP Design Manifesto, promoting ethical design practices.
- Hosted the National Communication Design Conference 2023, attended by over 1,500 participants.
- Partnered with CHED and multiple universities to establish a unified communication design curriculum framework.
- Launched the “Design for Good” initiative, integrating design into social innovation and community empowerment projects.
CDAP continues to shape the Philippine design landscape by fostering dialogue, collaboration, and advancement within the design community.