Baguio City, Philippines – In a momentous event at the Baguio Convention Center, the Project Monitoring for Indicators for Efficient Redevelopment and Value Assessment (MINERVA) turnover ceremony marked a significant milestone in the city’s journey towards smart and sustainable urban development.

Project MINERVA, a collaborative effort led by the AIM ACCeSs Laboratory in partnership with Baguio City and the University of the Philippines Baguio, funded by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), is poised to transform Baguio City into a model of creativity, intelligence, and innovation.

Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong, who graced the ceremony, emphasized the role of technology in digital transformation, highlighting its effectiveness as a powerful governance tool for sustainable urban development. He lauded Project MINERVA’s focus on key urban challenges such as air quality, water supply, urban mobility, and tourism demand in Baguio City.

The heart of Project MINERVA lies in its integration with the existing command center, serving as a nerve center for smart city operations. This integration allows for real-time monitoring, situational awareness, and decision-making support, revolutionizing the city’s approach to urban management.

The two-year journey of Project MINERVA is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in shaping the urban future. Named after the Roman Goddess of Wisdom, MINERVA symbolizes the guidance and wisdom it provides in addressing urban challenges.

Project MINERVA is part of a larger initiative aimed at empowering more local government units with the tools, infrastructure, and knowledge needed to tackle community challenges head-on. It is a step towards creating smart and sustainable communities and cities that are technologically advanced, inclusive, resilient, and environmentally sustainable.

As Baguio City looks towards a future powered by innovation and collaboration, Project MINERVA stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision and purpose. | Christine Louise Sumbillo