BulSU Hosts Transformative Gathering: Initiating Bulacan's Journey to Smart and Sustainable Cities by DAP-CSF and DOST Region 3

Bulacan State University (BulSU) recently hosted the venue for a significant gathering that brought together key players in the Bulacan province's journey towards becoming smarter and more sustainable. The event was the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region III and the Development Academy of the Philippines - Center Strategic Future's (DAP-CSF) Leveling-off Meeting on the Provincial Rapid Smart City Assessment of Bulacan last October 5, 2023, at the Bulacan State University’s E-Library.

This momentous gathering welcomed representatives from various Local Government Units (LGUs) within Bulacan Province, including San Jose del Monte City, Meycauayan City, Baliuag City, Sta Maria, and Guiguinto. Together, they will embark on a collaborative effort to assess and enhance the smart city potential of their respective communities. In attendance were also key partners from the SCC Network, notably Bulacan State University, represented by Dr. Allen N. Maroma, Vice President for Research, Development, and Extension at BulSU, who delivered welcoming remarks. BulSU also serves as DAP's valued collaborator in the Malolos Smart City project. Furthermore, BulSU's affiliated center, BARAS TBI, along with its lead consortium, SULONG Central Luzon, actively participated in this initiative.

During the meeting, the DAP-CSF introduced an exciting endeavor called the Linking Innovation Partners Towards Accelerated Development in the Philippines (LIPAD PH) to the LGU representatives. This program holds the promise of helping these LGUs transform into smarter and more sustainable communities. The core tool for this transformation is the DAP-CSF's Smart City Hexagon Tool, designed to facilitate the development of provincial-level smart city assessments.

In light of this partnership and commitment to the betterment of Bulacan, BulSU expressed its unwavering support for initiatives like these. This aligns perfectly with the university's broader aspiration to actively contribute to regional development. Bulacan State University envisions itself as a vital force in regional progress. The university recognizes its role as a nurturing ground for tomorrow's experts and as a key player in shaping human capital. Thus, BulSU is fully committed to regional development, beginning with making a positive impact within its home province of Bulacan. The meeting concluded with plans for continued communication between DAP and the LGUs to schedule the MOA signing next time, solidifying their commitment to realizing smarter and more sustainable communities in Bulacan.