The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in a statement on Monday, April 22, handed over a P17-million smart city project that seeks to utilize data science and artificial intelligence (AI) to transform Baguio City into a smart city.

Officials from the DOST, led by Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., turned over the outputs of the Project Monitoring of Indicators for Efficient Redevelopment and Value Assessment (MINERVA) to Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong on April 15 to address environmental concerns faced by the popular tourist destination.
DOST said the project will equip the city with data and tools for informed decision-making in various areas including tourism management, traffic control, air quality monitoring, and water supply quality.
“Air quality and water supply and quality can be monitored and forecast models be provided to city planners and administrators,” it said.
This initiative, the department highlighted, was to enable the creation of data-driven programs that will "improve the lives" of Baguio residents.
Meanwhile, Secretary Solidum stressed the difficulties that the country's metropolitan centers like Baguio City face can be solved through science and technology and boost its potential for growth and development.
“In the heart of a smart and sustainable community are science, technology, and innovation,” he said.
The secretary also cited Project MINERVA as a “significant step forward” to enhancing the country’s readiness.
During the event, DOST's commitment to "smartifying" cities was reiterated by Executive Director Paringit.
He further presented the Smart Cities Roadmap and outlined the DOST's plans to support cities through data centers, human resource investments, digital skills training, and educational programs focused on future cities through 2026.
"This is intended to establish a digitally equipped city utilizing smart technology, with the aid of the smart city roadmap,” Paringit added.