DTI mulls to establish Cebu FabLab

CEBU, Philippines - Following the turnover of a Fabrication Laboratory (FabLab) in Bohol, the Department of Trade and Industry is now exploring possibilities to establish a similar facility in Cebu.

A FabLab is a technical prototyping platform for innovation and invention, providing stimulus for local entrepreneurship. It is also a platform for learning innovation, a place to play, to create, to mentor, to invent.

In an interview yesterday with DTI-7 regional director Asteria Caberte, she said that the agency is now scouting for possible incorporator of the planned Fablab Cebu, which means a state university that will host the laboratory.

Caberte is strongly pushing for the establishment of this kind of facility in Cebu after noting good results from the FabLab in Bohol, which is now helping micro-small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the province.

"We are still looking for incorporator for the Cebu FabLab" said Caberte.

The FabLab helps in developing the local economy by providing better and more competitive products. It likewise enhances the local MSME ecosystem, encourages start-ups, and develops entrepreneurs who create more jobs.

Caberte said her office is initially talking with possible incorporators of the Cebu FabLab, and is currently in talks with management of different state universities in Cebu.

According to Caberte there is a need for Cebu to establish this kind of facility as the global competition is becoming "hurtful" for players. Facilities like this, could provide confidence, and encourages creativity, and most especially it will help the pushing the ultimate lead of Cebu in terms of design.

This kind of unique facility encourages local innovation for various equipment that can be used for manufacturing endeavors such as food processing. It provides access to online courses within the FabLab network and enhances the learnings and skills of students and MSMEs.

The Bohol Fablab for instance is co-funded by DTI, Department of Science and Technology, Bohol Island State University  and international organizations USAID and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Launched in May this year, the Bohol FabLab serves as a shared service facility (SSF) to support the creative industries in the province.   (FREEMAN)