Quezon City, Philippines | July 17, 2025 — As part of its continuing efforts to promote rural innovation and enterprise development, Aldersgate College Inc. (ACI) joined a delegation organized under Project DESIRE Phase II for a market scoping activity in several leading fabrication laboratories (FABLabs) across Metro Manila.
The activity was organized in partnership with the Provincial Cooperative and Enterprise Development Office (PROCEDE) and aimed to explore scalable technologies and production systems that can be adopted by student-led enterprises and community-based initiatives in Nueva Vizcaya.
The ACI delegation was composed of Mr. Kristian Cesar C. Ollier and Ms. Jovelyn A. Detablan, joined by two PROCEDE representatives and one from a partner academic institution. The team visited multiple innovation-driven fabrication hubs known for their advanced prototyping and digital manufacturing capabilities.
Among the key sites visited were Norde International Distributors, known for its industrial digital printing and 3D printing solutions; Puzzlebox 3D, a pioneer in 3D design and additive manufacturing services; OmniFab, which offers CNC machining, laser cutting, and prototyping services; and MachineLab Technology, a makerspace that supports inventors, tinkerers, and startups in building early-stage mechanical or electronic products.
The visit provided the team with practical insights on how digital fabrication technology can support rural microenterprises, enhance local productivity, and promote youth innovation. It also opened potential avenues for partnership and equipment acquisition for Aldersgate College’s own planned innovation spaces.
Project DESIRE II continues to serve as a platform for bridging the gap between academic innovation and local economic development, particularly in the province’s underserved areas.
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