Isabela State University (ISU) demonstrated its dedication to innovation, research, and community development as officials from the institution actively participated in the planning and orientation event of the Cagayan Valley Industry Energy and Emerging Technology R&D Consortium (CVIEERDEC). The event centered around the theme “Synergizing the Transformation to Smart and Sustainable Cities and Communities in the Cagayan Valley Region,” underlining the commitment to smarter, more sustainable communities.
The event, conducted in collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Region 2 and CVIEERDEC, marked a significant step toward enhancing technology and research initiatives in Cagayan Valley. It aimed to unite various stakeholders in a shared vision for a smarter and more sustainable future for the region.
Leading the event were Ms. Virginia G. Bilgera, the Regional Director of DOST Region 2 and co-chair of CVIEERDEC, and Dr. Urdujah G. Alvarado, President of Cagayan State University (CSU) and Chair of CVIEERDEC. They were joined by Dr. Junel B. Guzman, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension (RDE) at CSU and the Director of CVIEERDEC. Dr. Guzman warmly welcomed participants on behalf of Dr. Alvarado, highlighting the importance of science, technology, and innovation in addressing societal challenges. She emphasized that the collaboration of local government units and institutions in the Cagayan Valley Smarter City Community Belt project signifies a dedication to innovation and the pursuit of smarter solutions.
The event provided valuable insights into the rationale behind the Smart City project. The former Regional Director of DOST 2, Usec. Sancho A. Mabboranng, initiated this project, according to RD Virginia Bilgera. She proudly announced that Cauayan City has become the first smart city in the Philippines, and they are eager to assist other cities and municipalities interested in implementing smart city solutions. Moreover, other regions are already looking to Region 2 as a resource for the implementation of similar initiatives, highlighting the leadership role of Cagayan Valley in this important endeavor.
The event also featured discussions on DOST-funded research projects from Isabela State University, with Dr. Betchie E. Aguinaldo, Director of BIRD-C, and Dr. Maria Jane Bitanga, PDO Director of ISU Cauayan, presenting their work. Their research projects demonstrated the region’s potential for innovation and technological advancements.
Additional presentations included an overview of the Cagayan Valley Smarter City Belt and Roadmap by Ms. Raquel B. Santos and an exploration of the mandates of the Cagayan Valley Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology R&D Consortium by Dr. Junel B. Guzman.
The commitment to the Smarter City Belt Project was further underlined by several guest speakers, including Dr. Ramonsito B. Adducul, President of the Philippine Society of Information Technology (PSITE)-Cagayan Valley, Dr. Maria Visitacion Gumabay, President of the Council of Deans in Information Technology Education (CDITE), Dr. Jesus Pizarro, SPUP Smarter City Focal Person, and Dr. Junel B. Guzman, Director of CVIEERDEC.
The event drew active participation from academic ICT educators and Smarter City Focal persons, reinforcing the significance of collaborative efforts in this ambitious project. Enggr. Sylvià T. Lacambra, the Provincial Director of PSTC Cagayan, also shared her insights and vision for the future as the event concluded.
The collaborative efforts of Isabela State University and the broader Cagayan Valley community in this visionary project signify their commitment to driving innovation, technology, and sustainability for the betterment of the region and its communities. As they work toward creating smarter and more sustainable cities, they set an inspiring example for others to follow in the pursuit of a brighter, more connected future.