The City Government of Naga, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Region V, has launched a significant initiative to transform Naga into a model smart city. Leveraging the Innovation, Science, and Technology for Accelerating Regional Technology-based Development (iSTART) Strategy, this project is part of the broader Smart and Sustainable Communities (SSC) Program by DOST.
The SSC Program aims to enhance the quality of life in communities by advancing technology, resilience, and sustainability. The iSTART Strategy complements this goal by promoting balanced regional development through science, technology, and innovation (STI)-based policies and investments.
As part of the crucial step in this transformation, the Smart City Roadmapping Workshop was held last August 12, 13, and 20, 2024, in collaboration with the Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST). Participants from various sectors were present, including city department heads, academic institutions, and public and private organizations who were categorized into six dimensions: Smart Living, Smart People, Smart Government, Smart Economy, Smart Environment, and Smart Mobility.
The workshop set off with identifying and prioritizing STI-related issues and concerns within each dimension, validating them against the city’s current Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP). Through engaging in a visioning exercise, participants were able to pin down key scenario drivers and develop STI objectives and indicators. In its conclusion, the workshop led to the roadmap development and STI PPAs formulation, integral to Naga City’s smart city transformation.
This collaborative effort was formally solidified with a ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by key stakeholders, including Mayor Nelson Legacion and RD Rommel Serrano, CESO III, along with the other important partners. This partnership marks a significant step in Naga City’s pursuit toward a smarter and more sustainable future.
Written by: Krizia Coronel (ITPO)
Photos by: Ramil Herrera Jr. (CEPPIO) and DOST Camarines Sur
