April 14, 2026 – The Department of Trade and Industry – Regional Office V (DTI-RO5) and Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) formalized a significant partnership through the signing of a usufruct agreement under the Shared Service Facilities (SSF) Project, aimed at strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Masbate.
The agreement was signed by DTI-5 Regional Director Dindo G. Nabol and DEBESMSCAT President Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, marking a collaborative step toward enhancing local industry capabilities through shared access to modern equipment and facilities.
Also present during the signing were Mr. Francis Kyle Malto, FABLAB Project-In-Charge, and Dr. Erwin H. Malto, Vice President for Administration and Finance, whose roles are instrumental in the implementation and management of the facility.
Upon arrival, DTI officials conducted an inspection of the newly acquired machinery housed at the FabLab facility. The visit provided an opportunity to assess the readiness and operational capacity of the equipment, ensuring that it meets the intended objectives of supporting innovation, product development, and skills training for local MSMEs.
The usufruct agreement grants DEBESMSCAT the right to use machinery and equipment provided by DTI for a specified period, ensuring that local enterprises benefit from improved production capacity, innovation, and technical support. The initiative aligns with the government’s broader strategy to promote inclusive economic growth, job creation, and competitiveness among MSMEs.
Under the SSF Project, the fabrication laboratory in Masbate City is equipped with specialized tools such as UV printers, 3D printers, CNC routers, and other advanced machinery designed to support manufacturing and creative industries. The project is expected to directly benefit entrepreneurs, students, and local industry stakeholders by providing access to technology that would otherwise be difficult to acquire individually.
The signing ceremony and subsequent inspection underscore a shared vision of sustainable growth, innovation, and strengthened institutional cooperation for the province.
Ladies and gentlemen,
