The Department of Science and Technology Samar has provided P1.5 million in technical assistance for a four-year plan to help Catbalogan City become a smart and sustainable city.
The project is about maximizing the use of technological and digital solutions as well as innovative means to improve people’s lives, creating new opportunities, and addressing future challenges in health care, education, infrastructure, security of resources, public safety, disaster risks, and climate change,” said Dr. Evelyn Bacarra-Tablante, DOST-Samar provincial director.
Key components include installing a data server to integrate office systems, implementing energy-efficient solutions that reduce costs, and developing intelligent systems that enhance productivity while minimizing manual labor.
The project is part of the Smart City roadmap developed by DOST Samar in collaboration with local stakeholders and government agencies. Now in its second year, it focuses on using the Internet of Things (IoT).
Tablante noted that the project aligns with the Philippine government’s digital transformation objectives under Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and positions Catbalogan City as a model for smart governance in the region.
Engr. Exequiel Cabrigas III, the city’s IT head, said the Smart City Information and Communication Technology Office (CICTO) will oversee the implementation.
“In this year, madadama na nila yung first Treasury Office na may kiosk at may system na available. Then, public Wi-Fi will be installed in the upland and island. So, this year and every year may improvements tayo na mararamdaman,” Cabrigas III said.
He also noted that the city will host the Regional Smart City Exposition and Networking Engagement (rSCENE) in 2025. This event will be a platform for sharing ideas, showcasing innovative solutions, and promoting sustainable progress in the city and region.
We deeply appreciate your support in advancing the smart city road map for Catbalogan City. Your guidance and resources are enabling us to harness the power of technology to improve governance, enhance public services, and promote sustainable development,” Cabrigas III expressed.
The same initiative will be replicated in Calbayog City. From January 27 to 30, 2025, the DOST-Samar will organize road mapping activities involving partner agencies and department heads of local government units.
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Autor(en)/Author(s): Aaron A. Cotejar
Quelle/Source: Philippine Information Agency, 14.01.2025
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