DTI to Open PHP11.8-M Fab Lab in Ilocos

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is set to unveil the PHP11.8-million Ilocos Innovation Center Fabrication Laboratory and Co-Working Space at Philippine Science High School (PSHS) in San Ildefonso, Ilocos Sur on Thursday.

The Ilocos fab lab is part of the Shared Service Facility (SSF) Project of DTI. The fab lab is also the highest-funded SSF project of the department in the region.

According to DTI, the Ilocos fab lab has a total of 70 advanced machines including laser cutting machines, 3D printer, benchtop milling, embroidery machines, among others.

Fab labs help grassroots communities translate their design ideas into physical forms through advanced technology.

DTI said providing this kind of facility for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide will allow them to access prototyping technologies and software in designing and manufacturing which will help them be more competitive in the market.

Students of Ilocos PSHS will also have access to these technologies that will help them enhance their technical know-how.

Prior to Ilocos, DTI has provided a fab lab to MSMEs in Bohol — the country’s first fab lab facility.

The Bohol fab lab, worth PHP9.5 million, is in partnership with Japan International Cooperation Agency, Bohol Island State University, and the Department of Science and Technology. (PNA) JMC/KMC