COMMUNITY NEWS | Catbalogan pioneers Smart City transformation with roadmap to 2040

Leaping towards technological innovation and sustainable urban development, Catbalogan City officially released its draft for Catbalogan City Smart Roadmap on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at CAS Academic Building, Samar State University.

Key highlights of the event included the presentation of the draft for the roadmap and was followed by interactive sessions and panel discussions that featured experts and leaders from diverse fields

Said presentation gave the stakeholders from various sectors involved a chance to share insights and discuss the vision, goals, and initiatives outlined in the roadmap.

City Information, Communication & Technology Office (CICTO), led by Officer-in-Charge Engr. Exequiel C. Cabrigas III, presented the roadmap outlining a strategic plan divided into phases. Starting in 2024, the focus will be on System Development and Integration, aimed to establish essential infrastructure. This phase will set the stage for future progress by includes implementing systems, launching innovative projects, and fostering collaboration.

In his presentation, Engr. Cabrigas shared that in 2025, Catbalogan City will focus on expanding and strengthening its infrastructure. This includes improving services, simplifying laws, enhancing technology, and involving more people in civic activities. According to him, these efforts will lay a strong foundation for future growth and innovation.

The subsequent years, spanning from 2026 to 2028, are earmarked for diversification and innovation. Engr. Cabrigas emphasized that in this stage, Catbalogan will shift its focus to creating an innovative culture by introducing new systems, advancing technology, promoting community development, and working on sustainability projects. He further stated that this all-encompassing strategy has the potential to spur revolutionary change throughout the city and promote equitable growth.

As the roadmap progresses into the 2029-2039 phase, Catbalogan will start a journey of Sustainable Transformation. Engr. Cabrigas stressed that the city focuses on sustainable development, technological innovation, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. According to him, these plans show Catbalogan’s commitment to building a prosperous and resilient future, balancing progress with ecological preservation.

Engr. Cabrigas shared that the pinnacle of Catbalogan City’s aspirations is set for 2040, symbolizing the fruition of its long-term vision. By this time, the city aims to achieve comprehensive sustainability goals, with 100% underground infrastructure and a strong digital ecosystem. Catbalogan envisions itself as a beacon of urban sustainability and efficiency, showcasing how technology can foster resilient communities.

The panelists at the event were Samar State University President Dr. Redentor Palencia, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VIII – Science Research Specialist Dr. Ramil Uy, DICT Samar Provincial Officer Engr. Edberto Versoza, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Samar – City Local Operations Officer Janice Terado, BBCS Data Systems proprietor Engr. Joseph Balisacan, and Mare e Monte Restaurant proprietor Engr. Lourdes Singzon.

While guests were DOST Region VIII Director for Technical Operations Marilyn Radam, DOST Samar Director Evelyn Tablante, and SSU Samar Island GIS and Data Analytics Center (SIGISDAC) Director Engr. Raven Tabiongan.