The vision of Dapitan to become a Smart Heritage City is not only about having state-of-the-art facilities and technologies but also about preserving its past, promoting its culture and traditions, and preparing for a sustainable future. And at the center of this vision is the life and works of the country's national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, who lived and exiled in the city during the Spanish colonial era.
Through the years, Dapitan has kept Rizal's legacy alive by maintaining the Rizal Shrine, where he lived during his exile, and the various landmarks and historical sites related to his life. And in line with the Smart Heritage City vision, the local government aims to develop and enhance these attractions to provide a better experience for tourists and educate the younger generation about the significance of Rizal's contributions to Philippine history and culture.
But the Smart Heritage City vision goes beyond promoting tourism. Dapitan recognizes the importance of sustainable development to its economy and environment, and it aims to achieve this by implementing green technologies and innovative solutions to improve its infrastructure, transportation, and waste management. It also seeks to develop local industries, promote cultural events, and preserve the traditional practices of its communities while harnessing the benefits of technology to enhance their livelihoods and welfare.
Moreover, the city's goal to become a Smart Heritage City also emphasizes resilience, especially in times of natural disasters. Dapitan aims to improve its disaster preparedness and response, enhance its communication systems, and develop sustainable infrastructure that can withstand calamities. This way, it can continue to provide a safe and secure environment for its residents and visitors, even in the face of unexpected challenges.
But the Smart Heritage City vision goes beyond promoting tourism. Dapitan recognizes the importance of sustainable development to its economy and environment, and it aims to achieve this by implementing green technologies and innovative solutions to improve its infrastructure, transportation, and waste management. It also seeks to develop local industries, promote cultural events, and preserve the traditional practices of its communities while harnessing the benefits of technology to enhance their livelihoods and welfare.
Moreover, the city's goal to become a Smart Heritage City also emphasizes resilience, especially in times of natural disasters. Dapitan aims to improve its disaster preparedness and response, enhance its communication systems, and develop sustainable infrastructure that can withstand calamities. This way, it can continue to provide a safe and secure environment for its residents and visitors, even in the face of unexpected challenges.
Visiting the Taipei City Hall last Tuesday, the officers of the Dapitan City Government headed by Mayor Seth Frederick "Bullet" P. Jalosjos and regional and local officials of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) had the privilege of engaging in a benchmarking session with the representatives from the Taipei Urban Intelligence Center (TUIC).
They were able to discuss issues on urban planning and disaster resilience. The Dapitan City contingent received an insightful briefing about the Smart City Initiatives in Taipei City.
Dapitan's vision to become a Smart Heritage City is not an easy feat, but it is an admirable one. By combining its rich cultural heritage, sustainable strategies, and smart technologies, the city aims to create a harmonious balance between its past and future. It aspires to become a city that honors its traditions, preserves its natural beauty, and provides a high quality of life for its people, all while making strides towards a sustainable future. Dapitan is indeed an inspiring model for other cities in the Philippines and beyond.