MATI CITY, Davao Oriental (PIA) — The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in the Davao region and the Davao Oriental State University (DOrSU) inaugurated a fabrication laboratory on March 5 at the university’s research complex in the city.
Dubbed Materials Development and Innovation in Davao Oriental Fabrication Laboratory (MADE IN DAVLAB): A Regenerative Path for Birthing Innovative Ideas, the P10 million DTI-funded laboratory, under the shared service facility (SSF) program, is poised to become a hub for innovation and collaboration.
Innovators and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the province, including DOrSU’s academic community, are expected to benefit from the facility by gaining access to cutting-edge technology and industry-driven solutions.
In his message, DTI Regional Director Romeo Castañaga highlighted the project’s impact in enabling local MSMEs to develop new products, add value to existing ones and generate new income streams.
“With P10 million in funding from DTI, this project is unlocking limitless possibilities. Through collaboration between government agencies, civil society and the media, we can achieve even greater milestones,” he said.
DTI Davao Oriental Provincial Director Ma. Joycelyn Banlasan said the project is a “game-changer” for the province, and she reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with DOrSU and other industry players to achieve the best possible outcomes.
“This project has been three years in the making. It is the first of its kind in the province and, if I am not mistaken, the first in the region. Through the Pentahelix approach, we will work together to ensure the success of this collaboration,” she added.
DOrSU President Dr. Roy Ponce highlighted their strong collaboration with DTI, leading to the project’s realization, noting, “There is nothing better than a vision realized.”
He hoped the project would benefit MSMEs, innovators and the school community, and help the institution achieve its aspiration of entering the QS World Rankings.
The fabrication laboratory is equipped with advanced equipment and other laboratory services for design and material development.
The facility will also serve as a training center, providing seminars and workshops for targeted beneficiaries in the province. (ASO, PIA XI/with reports from DOrSU)
