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In a significant step toward sustainable development, Northwest Samar State University (NWSSU) collaborated with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Calbayog City and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Samar Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) for a three-day planning workshop series titled “Calbayog City Journey to Become a Smart City.”

The event, held from January 27 to 30 at the BDC of NWSSU, brought together unit heads from various LGU offices, national government agencies (NGAs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academic institutions, and the private sector to lay the groundwork for Calbayog City’s transformation into a smart and sustainable city.

This initiative is part of the four-year project “Establishment of Calbayog City into Smart and Sustainable City through STI Ecosystem Approach,” spearheaded by the LGU Calbayog and DOST Samar PSTO. The project aims to enhance the capabilities of local government officials and stakeholders in developing and implementing smart city initiatives, leveraging science, technology, and innovation (STI) to drive progress.

The workshop featured expert lectures on the concept of a Smart City, emphasizing the importance of integrating technology, sustainability, and community engagement in urban development. Participants then engaged in workshops to develop the “Smart City Roadmap for Calbayog City,” a strategic framework for the city’s development projects.

DOST8 Regional Director Dr. John Glenn D. Ocana highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving the city’s vision. Experts from the University of the Philippines Los Baños also led lectures and discussions.

NWSSU played a key role in the event, with representatives Dr. Riz Rupert L. Ortiz, Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Extension, and Dr. Nancy G. Lanuza from the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CCIS), actively participating in the initiatives. Their participation highlighted the university’s commitment to support development through research and innovation.

The DOST’s Smart City Project aims to utilize technology and innovation to create models for sustainable urban development that can be replicated across the Philippines. By supporting Calbayog City’s journey, the DOST hopes to demonstrate how smart city initiatives can improve governance, enhance public services, and foster economic and environmental resilience.

The collaboration between the LGU, DOST, NWSSU, and other stakeholders marks a promising beginning for Calbayog City’s transformation into a smart and sustainable city. The outcomes of the workshop are expected to pave the way for a more innovative, inclusive, and sustainable future for the city and its residents.

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