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The City of Carmona in Cavite province is accelerating its journey toward becoming a smart city with support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and international collaborators. This commitment was solidified through a Memorandum of Agreement (MaA) between the Carmona City government and DOST’s Innovation, Science, and Technology for Accelerating Regional Technology-based Development Programme (iSTART).
Under the MoA, DOST will facilitate the transfer of relevant technologies and provide training to the city government, as highlighted by DOST-Calabarzon regional director Emelita Bagsit. In the Philippine context, a smart city employs technology and innovation to enhance urban functionality, sustainability, and livability, addressing the needs of residents and the environment.
Additionally, Smart City Network (SCN), in collaboration with DOST-Calabarzon and the Carmona city government, conducted a workshop on smart city transformation at the Carmona Training Center. The workshop, led by Dr Kok Chin Tay, SCN Chair, and the Chief Business Officer of a large tech company, focused on various aspects such as strategic planning, integrated command centres, smart mobility, cybersecurity, and digital literacy initiatives.
The Chief Business Officer stressed the importance of connectivity advancements in overcoming logistical challenges, particularly in archipelagic countries like the Philippines. Despite connectivity limitations, the municipality can implement digital literacy outreach to engage indigenous groups in the smart city journey, he noted.
SCN, a non-profit organisation comprising professionals with expertise in diverse fields, aims to support Carmona’s smart city initiatives through knowledge sharing and collaborative efforts across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and start-up incubation.
DOST recently delivered a P17 million (about US$ 335,000) smart city project to Baguio City, focusing on environmental concerns at tourist spots. Led by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., the MINERVA project employs data science and AI to enhance urban planning. It models tourism, traffic, air, and water quality, aiding decision-making.
This initiative underscores DOST’s commitment to smart city development, supported by plans for digital infrastructure. Mayor Magalong welcomed the project’s outcomes, aiming to improve the urban quality of life in Baguio. The project’s outputs align with the city’s objectives for a smart, sustainable, green, and livable urban environment.
The Philippines is committed to fostering inclusive digital transformation for nationwide progress. Through initiatives aimed at empowering local government units, community-based programmes and a variety of organisations, the country is looking to upskill and reskill citizens.
OpenGov Asia reported that the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is amplifying ICT capabilities at the grassroots level, ensuring that everyone has access to the benefits of technological advancement.
This dedication was showcased at the Convergence of Luzon ICT Champions Conference and Exhibition 2024 (CLICkConEx) held in Baguio City, where DICT emphasised the pivotal role of ICT councils in driving digital progress at the grassroots level. Addressing pressing issues such as cybersecurity, digital literacy, and the digital divide, these councils play a crucial role in fostering local ecosystems conducive to digital advancement.
Through initiatives like the Digital Innovation for Regional Ecosystem and Countryside Transformation (DIRECT) Programme, DICT is directly impacting stakeholders, even in rural areas, by promoting digital literacy and stimulating economic growth. The DIRECT Programme encompasses various components such as Regional ICT Summits and Exhibitions (RISE), Digital Career Expo, Digital Communities Plus, D4D Summits, and Digital Inclusion Programmes, all aimed at propelling digital literacy and economic growth in local communities.
Moreover, DICT’s commitment to digital inclusivity is evident in initiatives like the Universal Internet Subscription for Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (UISGIDA) programme, which aims to bridge the digital divide by providing access to digital resources and skills training in underserved areas.
Additionally, the inauguration of new DICT offices and the deployment of emergency telecommunication satellite facilities underscore the department’s commitment to inclusive development and disaster resilience.
