FILIPINOS are known to be innately creative, resourceful, and innovative. A lot has been documented but there were still some who cannot reach their full potentials due to lack of facilities and equipment, especially now that the world has shifted to digital technology.

Recognizing this, The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)-Davao, in coordination with the different government agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)-Davao, the State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) and the local government unit, worked hand in hand to finally pave the way for potential innovators of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

DTI 11 Regional Director Maria Belenda Ambi expressed her gratefulness upon finally launching the very first Digihub Shared Service Facilities (SSF) - Davao Fabrication Laboratory in the Davao Region on Friday, February 15, 2019 at the University of the Southeastern Philippines (Usep).

"Basically, the purpose of this is for our MSMEs to have a technology-driven na designing and improvement of their products because we would also like to see their products leveling up or up-scaled," Ambi said.

"Dili na gyud pwede (It is not possible to use) manual anymore because right now we are into the information and digital technology so we should be able to access digital solutions," she added.

The laboratory has laser cutter, CNC cutter, embroidery machine with software, heat press for fabric, TIG welding set with grinder, large format printer, three-dimensional (3D) printer and laser scanner, UV printer, and small and big milling machines.

The equipment will help in the development of prototypes and designs on metal-based products, wood-based products, plant-based products and mixed media furniture products.

With all these equipment, designers, entrepreneurial students and potential MSMEs will finally have a creative space to transform their ideas into prototypes which can easily be manufactured through digital fabrication and advance prototyping.

The P12-million facilities and equipment of the Fab Lab will be maintained by the USEP through hiring trained personnel and reasonable charging fees for every use.

Meanwhile, DOST-Davao regional director Doctor Anthony Sales that along with the support to creative minds and innovators for economic progress, other aspects will be considered also, such as the environment, social, and health.