A Milestone for Western Mindanao
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in partnership with Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) and industry collaborators including Makerlab Electronics, has officially launched the first and only Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) in Zamboanga Peninsula.
The event took place on September 23, 2025, at the RICME Building, College of Engineering, WMSU, as part of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW 2025) and the nationwide HANDA Pilipinas para sa Bagong Pilipinas celebration.
What is AMCen?
The Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMCen) is a DOST-led initiative designed to bring additive manufacturing, 3D printing, and advanced digital fabrication technologies closer to industries, universities, and local communities.
Its goal is to:
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Support MSMEs with prototyping and product development
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Provide training and research opportunities for students and professionals
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Accelerate technology adoption in local industries
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Build a future-ready workforce equipped with Industry 4.0 skills
AMCen facilities are being rolled out across different regions of the Philippines, with Zamboanga Peninsula now joining this growing national network.
Why Zamboanga Peninsula?
As a key growth hub in Western Mindanao, Zamboanga Peninsula has a thriving mix of industries, academe, and entrepreneurs who can greatly benefit from advanced manufacturing technologies.
By placing AMCen inside WMSU’s RICME Building, DOST ensures that:
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Students and faculty gain hands-on access to digital fabrication equipment
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Innovators and MSMEs can prototype ideas locally without relying on distant facilities
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The region is better positioned to participate in the country’s shift toward high-tech and sustainable industries
Makerlab’s Role: Empowering the Center with Technology
As one of the proud industry partners, Makerlab Electronics actively contributed to the success of the AMCen launch by lending 3D printers for use in the new center.
This collaboration ensures that the facility is equipped not just with physical infrastructure, but also with the tools needed to deliver immediate value for training, prototyping, and digital fabrication.
“We are proud to support AMCen Zamboanga Peninsula by providing technologies that will empower innovators, students, and local industries,” shared Voltaire Gaviola, Brand Supervisor of Makerlab Electronics. “Together with DOST and WMSU, we aim to help build a stronger innovation ecosystem in Western Mindanao.”
A Launch in Step with National Innovation Efforts
The launch of AMCen Zamboanga Peninsula is not just a regional milestone—it aligns with the broader national agenda of expanding access to science, technology, and innovation across the country.
By being part of RSTW 2025 and HANDA Pilipinas, the event highlights how advanced manufacturing is directly connected to the government’s goals of resilience, preparedness, and inclusive growth.
With other AMCen hubs already launched in regions such as CALABARZON and Western Visayas, the establishment of one in Zamboanga further decentralizes innovation and makes high-tech resources accessible to more Filipinos.
Looking Ahead
The journey does not end with the launch. With AMCen Zamboanga Peninsula now operational, the next steps include:
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Training sessions and workshops for students, faculty, and local businesses
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Collaborative research projects between academe and industry
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Support for MSMEs to adopt digital fabrication and additive manufacturing
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Continuous upgrades to ensure the center stays at the forefront of innovation
Conclusion
The AMCen Zamboanga Peninsula represents a new chapter of opportunity for Western Mindanao. With DOST leading the charge, WMSU providing the academic foundation, and industry partners like Makerlab Electronics supplying vital technologies, the region is set to thrive in the era of advanced manufacturing.
Together, this partnership brings the tools of the future into the hands of today’s innovators—strengthening communities, industries, and the Filipino workforce.
