From Idea to Reality: Makerlab Captivates at ASTICON 2025
The halls of Novotel Manila Araneta City were buzzing on August 5, 2025 as ASTICON opened its doors to innovators, industry leaders, researchers, and students. In the middle of the excitement stood Makerlab—a subsidiary of Jassen Harris Industries Corp.—with a futuristic showcase of 3D printers plus robotics and electronics kits.
For Makerlab, ASTICON wasn’t just another trade show. It was a stage to prove how technology can spark creativity in the next generation—delivered through a booth that blended cutting-edge tools with hands-on discovery.
A Gathering of Minds and Makers
ASTICON 2025 was no small affair. Divided into a bustling exhibit area and a high-profile plenary hall, the event became a melting pot of ideas and collaborations.
The Makerlab Team at ASTICON 2025
In the plenary, the tone was set by ASTICON 2025 Event Chairperson Alvin E. Retamar and DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., Ph.D. Opening messages underscored the role of innovation in nation-building, followed by insights from DOST Undersecretary Leah J. Buendia, Ph.D., DOST Assistant Secretary Napoleon K. Juanillo, Jr., Ph.D., and DOST-ASTI Director Franz A. De Leon, Ph.D.
As the day unfolded, the audience witnessed the launch of several key initiatives — ACCORD, ASCENT, CONNECT, and THRIVE — each designed to bridge the gap between research and real-world application. Industry experts like Lope Doromal, Jr. of Microsoft Philippines, Vic Gruet of EIAPI, and Jeffrey Reyes of Twala shared their insights, while panel discussions brought together voices from both the corporate and academic worlds.
A full house at ASTICON 2025! Leaders, innovators, researchers, and changemakers gather to celebrate advancements in science, technology, and innovation. Courtesy of DOST Philippines.
The Makerlab Experience: Where Innovation Meets Play
While the plenary hall was rich with dialogue, the exhibit floor was alive with energy — and Makerlab’s booth was at the center of it all. Visitors crowded around live 3D printing demonstrations, watching as intricate shapes took form layer by layer. Young tech enthusiasts tinkered with different boards and computers, making robots light up, move, and react.
Projects like gravity-controlled cars and a smart garbage can showed just how playful technology can be, while also hinting at its real-world potential. The team also unveiled kits and tools from brands like Acebott, ElecFreaks, M5Stack, and Seeed Studio, among many others, each offering a different way to bring ideas to life. Even the small gesture of giving away 3D-printed keychains became a highlight, sending visitors home with a tangible reminder of their Makerlab experience.
ASTICON 2025 attendees exploring the Makerlab booth
Hands-On Highlights
- Gravity-controlled cars and a smart garbage can that showcased playful, practical tech.
- Live 3D printing with take-home keychains as souvenirs.
- Demo kits from Acebott, ElecFreaks, M5Stack, Seeed Studio, and more.
What Visitors Said
“Seeing the print happen right in front of us made STEM feel real.” “I didn’t know electronics could be this fun—and this accessible.”
ASTICON 2025 attendees dive into Makerlab’s robotics & electronics kits.
A New Partnership on the Horizon
ASTICON also set the stage for a significant announcement: the Resilient Education Information Infrastructure for the New Normal (REIINN) formally signed a Limited Manufacturing Agreement with Jassen Harris Industries Corp.
Supported by the DOST–ASTI Technology Licensing Office, REIINN develops innovative educational technologies while Jassen Harris will handle large-scale production—turning prototypes into classroom-ready products. The goal aligns with Makerlab’s mission: make hands-on, tech-driven learning accessible to schools and communities nationwide.
Makerlab Exclusive Kits in ASTICON 2025
Beyond the Event: Why Makerlab Matters
Makerlab booth's showcase of 3D Printers and Robotics at ASTICON 2025
Throughout the day, clusters of students lingered at the tables, asking questions, trying robotics kits, and imagining projects of their own. For many, Makerlab turned the abstract idea of “STEM education” into something they could see, touch, and take home.
Students proudly show off their Makerlab freebies at ASTICON 2025
For many attendees — especially students — Makerlab’s presence at ASTICON was more than an introduction to cool gadgets. It was a glimpse into a future where anyone, regardless of age or background, can be a creator. By making advanced tools like 3D printers and robotics kits accessible and easy to use, Makerlab is planting the seeds for problem-solvers, inventors, and innovators of tomorrow.
Looking Ahead
REIINN and Jassen Harris Industries Corporation signing a Limited Manufacturing Agreement during ASTICON 2025. Courtesy of DOST Philippines.
ASTICON 2025 was a milestone for Makerlab, but just one step in an ongoing journey to empower young minds through technology. Whether in classrooms, workshops, or national events, Makerlab remains committed to making innovation not only possible—but exciting—for everyone.
Attendees of ASTICON 2025 at the Makerlab booth with their freebie keychains
Message from the booth: The future is in your hands—now let’s build it together.
