To automate local government processes and provide residents with improved access to government services through information and communication technologies (ICT),Saint Mary’s University-Center of Information and Communication Technology extends its hand to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) as it launches its Smart Community Project in the municipality of Dupax del Norte, marking it as the pilot testing area for the province of Nueva Vizcaya. 

The Smarter Community Program for Sustainable Dupax del Norte seeks to transform the town into a smart, sustainable, and technologically advanced community. The project aligns with DOST’s vision of using ICT and innovation to enhance the quality of life, operational efficiency, and competitiveness of local government units (LGUs), while ensuring sustainability in economic, social, and environmental aspects.

A three-day road mapping activity was conducted from June 28 to 30, 2023, as part of the project’s implementation where each office of the LGU conducted a SWOT analysis to assess internal strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats on the first day.

Moreover, the second day allowed DOST Region II Smart City Focal Person Raquel B. Santos to lead discussions on the formulation of stakeholders’ needs and expectations. Additionally, Dr. Betchie Aguinaldo, Dean of the College of Computing Studies, Information and Technology (CCSIT) of Isabela State University, presented the concept of a Sustainable Development Goal Center while Atty. Reina Santos facilitated a workshop on identifying service gaps for a Smart Municipality, with assistance from SMU-CICT in guiding each LGU unit in their gap analysis.

The three-day activity concluded with the presentation of outputs from each LGU unit. More so, SMU-CICT provided feedback and assisted in the formulation of policies and plans that will support the municipality’s transition toward a smarter and more sustainable governance system.

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