13/07/2026
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๐๐๐ข๐ฅ๐ข๐ญ๐๐ญ๐๐ฌ ๐๐ฆ๐๐ซ๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ฏ๐๐ซ๐ง๐๐ง๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ซ๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ญ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ข๐ฅ๐จ๐ญ ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐๐ฌ
As part of the Department of Science and Technology's (DOST) Smart and Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP), the DOST-CAR thru the DOST-Baguio-Benguet facilitated a learning visit on July 6, 2026 to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for the Municipality of La Trinidad and the City Government of Baguio City representatives. The visit is part of the Joint Environmental Scanning aimed at gathering insights into smart governance initiatives and identifying strategies that may be adapted to the participating local government units (LGUs).
The delegation was welcomed by MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando S. Artes, together with Director III Michael M. Gison of the Office of the Assistant General Manager for Planning โ Physical Planning and Spatial Development Service, Mr. Edison L. Nebrija, Head of the Operations Monitoring and Control Group, Mr. Ronezes S. Rivera, Officer-in-Charge of the No Physical Contact Apprehension Program, EnP Rene Jay Dela Calzada of the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP), and their respective staff, who were present during the learning visit.
The visit highlighted how digital technologies, integrated information systems, and collaborative governance contribute to more efficient urban management and public service delivery. Through the exchange, the participating LGUs gained practical insights that can help strengthen their ongoing digital transformation and smart community initiatives.
The activity forms part of DOST-Baguio-Benguet's continuing efforts to promote knowledge exchange and support the adoption of science, technology, and innovation (STI)-driven solutions that address the priority development needs of SSC pilot communities.
Among the programs presented were the "Yes to Ayos, Disiplina Muna" campaign, which promotes discipline and civic responsibility; the MMDA Geospatial Portal and GIS Database, which supports data-driven planning and disaster risk reduction; the Mobile Materials Recovery Facility (Mobile MRF) and Solid Waste Management Information System (SWMIS), which enhance waste management through community participation and digital monitoring; the No Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) and MyHuliKa Portal, which utilize technology to improve traffic enforcement; and the MMDA Communications and Command Center, which integrates traffic monitoring, emergency response, and public safety operations across Metro Manila.
Beyond showcasing innovative technologies, the visit emphasized the importance of integrating data, sound governance, and citizen participation in building smart and sustainable communities. The delegation also recognized that successful digital transformation requires not only technological solutions but also institutional readiness, strategic planning, and collaboration among stakeholders.
The MMDA visit served as a valuable starting point for the Joint Environmental Scanning, demonstrating how data, technology, and coordinated governance can strengthen urban management and public service delivery. The insights gathered provided the delegation with a strong foundation as they explore smart and sustainable practices across Metro Manila and the Bicol Region.
