James Steven Batucan is a renaissance professional of modern times. A proud graduate of Ateneo de Davao University with a degree in Mass Communication, specialising in Media and Journalism, he exemplifies the essence of versatility and excellence in his many endeavours. Over the years, James has established himself as a multifaceted professional, excelling in fields ranging from media and creative consultancy to sports, content creation, and book authorship. With a career spanning over nine years, his journey reflects a rare combination of passion, skill, and an unwavering commitment to impact-driven work.

James has a storied career in media and journalism. His career in journalism began with his tenure as a writer for the Mindanao Times from 2016 to 2019, where he showcased his knack for storytelling and investigative reporting. During this time, he wrote compelling features on some of the Philippines' most prominent figures, such as: Vice President Sara Duterte, former Mayor of Davao City; Brillante Mendoza, a globally acclaimed Philippine film director; Joey Ayala, a folk-rock icon who shaped Filipino music; Raffy Alunan III, former DILG Secretary and political leader; Moira Lang, a celebrated scriptwriter; and Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the former President of the Philippines and Davao City Mayor. James's work transcended traditional reporting, capturing not only stories but the essence of his subjects. His bylines, archived on the Mindanao Times website, reveal the breadth of his journalistic prowess and his ability to bring stories to life.

As a published book author, James co-wrote Mayor Duterte and the Making of Davao, an insightful account of Davao City’s transformation under Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. Published in 2015, the book served as a prelude to Duterte's eventual presidency. Recognised by the City Government of Davao, the book is not just a historical narrative but a testament to James’s ability to chronicle significant political and social milestones. The book is preserved as part of Davao’s literary legacy and is a cornerstone of his contributions to Philippine literature.

James served as the Admin and Production Head for the Film Academy of the Philippines—Mindanao, an appointment under the Office of the Philippine President. In this capacity, he spearheaded creative projects that highlighted Mindanao’s rich cultural tapestry, merging his media expertise with his love for storytelling. This role solidified his reputation as a cultural advocate and creative consultant. As a contributing writer for league.ph, James delved into diverse subjects, from the inspiring story of Congressman Cheeno Almario to a feature on PDEA Director General Wilkins Villanueva. His article, “MATI: A GEM IN DAVAO ORIENTAL,” is a vivid depiction of one of the Philippines' most picturesque regions, blending journalism with travel writing.

Beyond his professional pursuits, James has a deep-seated passion for football. As a former Philippine national football player, he exemplified discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Transitioning from player to coach, he dedicated himself to nurturing the next generation of athletes. His efforts in football coaching extend to youth development, where he emphasises not just technical skills but values such as sportsmanship and leadership. James’s involvement with Crocs Davao Football Club as a coach and mentor further underscores his commitment to the sport. Whether managing scholar players or promoting the club’s achievements, he has become a pillar of Davao’s football community.

James has carved a niche as a marketing creative consultant and a multiskilled freelancer and Entrepreneur. His expertise spans digital marketing, advertising, and social media management as well as crafting campaigns that captivate and convert audiences. In content creation, James' expertise involves producing engaging multimedia content, including photography, videography, and video editing. He has also leveraged his dynamic personality and captivating voice to enliven events and media productions in the event hosting and voiceover artistry space. These roles highlight his adaptability and ability to thrive in fast-paced, ever-changing environments.

James’s professional journey is marked by his expertise in marketing and business development. With a career spanning industry such as fintech, real estate, private equity, and Web 3.0, he has honed skills in: building and nurturing client relationships to drive growth in sales and business development; leading teams to execute complex projects successfully in project and people management; applying strategic thinking to manage financial portfolios and property investments in banking, finance, and real estate; as well as innovating in emerging industries to stay ahead of technological trends in Web 3.0 and fintech.

A gamer at heart, James embraces his love for video games and collectibles. His pop-up booth, Retro Gaming Consoles Collectibles Comics and Figurines (@rgcccf.ph), celebrates nostalgia and showcases his passion for gaming culture. As a video game collector, he bridges the gap between generations, sharing the joy of classic gaming with a broader audience.

James Steven Batucan is not defined by one role or title; rather, he is a Renaissance professional whose multifaceted career is a testament to his adaptability and relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey from journalist and author to marketer, coach, and creative consultant is marked by a dedication to his craft and a desire to make a difference. Whether chronicling the legacy of leaders, mentoring young athletes, or creating compelling content, James embodies the spirit of innovation and leadership. His ability to navigate diverse fields with equal passion and skill makes him a true modern-day polymath. As he continues to evolve in his career, one thing remains certain: in every endeavour, James Steven Batucan exemplifies the ethos of a true Renaissance man—constantly evolving, inspiring, and making a difference.