TACLOBAN CITY— In its ongoing mission to foster innovation and empower local enterprises, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Leyte is calling on entrepreneurs, startups, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to make full use of the Fabrication Laboratory (Fab Lab) Shared Service Facilities (SSF) established at the Philippine Science High School – Eastern Visayas Campus (PSHS-EVC). 

This state-of-the-art facility, equipped with advanced digital fabrication tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines, are designed to help businesses prototype, design, and manufacture products more efficiently and affordably. 

By offering shared access to cutting-edge technology, the Fab Labs aim to level the playing field for small businesses that may not have the capital to invest in high-cost equipment. 

According to DTI Leyte Provincial Director Araceli Larraga, the use of Fab Labs not only boosts productivity and innovation but also encourages product development that is globally competitive and can serve as a springboard to scale up, compete, and contribute to the country’s economic resilience. 

“We envision the Fab Labs as enablers of creativity and practical problem-solving and can help transform ideas into market-ready products,” Larraga said. 

Beyond physical manufacturing, the labs also offer training and mentorship, supporting the development of technical skills among local artisans and entrepreneurs. 

DTI is committed to support the creative economy aligning with the goals of Republic Acct 11904 or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act which promotes and supports the development of creative industries by protecting and strengthening the rights and capacities of creative firms, artists, artisans, creators, workers, indigenous cultural communities, content providers, and stakeholders in the creative industries. 

In relation to this, DTI-Leyte staged “Taragpo 2.0: A Leyte Traditional and Digital Visual Arts Exhibit. 

“Taragpo” means the fusion of traditional and digital art forms by the rich and diverse talents of Leyte artists and providing a platform to showcase their works from paintings, sculptures, digital paintings, photography and mixed media art. 

The event underscores the transformative potential of digital arts in shaping the future of the creative economy. 

DTI PHOTO