Makati Mayor Abby Binay to Address International Roundtable Discussion in Barcelona

Makati City - Mayor Abby Binay of Makati City, known for her unwavering commitment to smart and sustainable city development, recently attended a high-level roundtable discussion in Barcelona, Spain. The event, titled "From Climate Goals to Action: Cities Taking Charge," was organized as part of the World Smart Cities Awards, where Makati City has been recognized as a finalist in the City Award category for 2023.

Mayor Binay was honored to be invited to this international forum and to share Makati City's experiences and initiatives in the realm of climate action. The roundtable discussion gathered distinguished individuals involved in climate action and smart city initiatives, providing a platform for the exchange of best practices and innovative ideas. Mayor Binay stressed the importance of international cooperation and collaboration, highlighting that successful climate programs require learning from progressive cities worldwide.

The event not only offered an opportunity to learn from other forward-thinking cities but also allowed Makati City to showcase its achievements and future plans. Makati's competition entry emphasized several new initiatives, including the installation of state-of-the-art smart meters to optimize energy and water consumption in public schools, noise pollution sensors for monitoring urban noise levels and promoting a peaceful environment, and outdoor air quality monitors to track air quality. Additionally, asset trackers utilizing advanced LoRaWAN technology will enhance resource management across the city. Makati's Command Control and Communications Center (C3) will also transform into an Internet of Things (IoT) platform for improved asset management and disaster risk reduction and response.

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The World Smart Cities Award, part of the Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC), recognizes and promotes innovative urban initiatives that enhance the quality of life in cities worldwide. Makati City has a history of success in this competition, having been a top six finalist in the Innovation category in 2019 for its "Use of technology to improve city disaster preparedness and communication to and from city citizens." One of the key innovations highlighted was the Makatizen App, the Philippines' first digital citizen app, enabling users to report emergencies by tapping the SOS button.

Mayor Binay's commitment to smart city development extends beyond borders. In November, she will travel to Dubai, UAE, to fulfill her role as a member of the COP 28 UAE Advisory Committee, a prestigious appointment as the only mayor from the Philippines and one of the few from around the world to receive an invitation to this significant meeting. Wherever she goes, Mayor Binay carries the well-being and advancement of every #ProudMakatizen close to her heart and mind. Her international engagements underscore her dedication to bringing global insights and best practices back to Makati City to ensure it continues to thrive as a smart and sustainable city.