Philippines to chair ASEAN Smart Cities Network in 2026

The Philippines will chair the ASEAN Smart Cities Network (ASCN) in 2026, taking over from Malaysia.

DILG Undersecretary Marlo L. Iringan received the chairmanship, emphasizing that smart communities focus on practical improvements and fostering community resilience.

He stressed that accountable and efficient local governance is core to smart city development.

Examples of successful initiatives include Manila's Command City Upgrade and e-Government Service, and Davao's Converged Command Center and Control.

The Philippines is also promoting LGU Accountability with Cauayan City's inclusion, showcasing smart governance adoption.

Cebu's Automated Citywide Traffic Control and Davao's Intelligent Transportation and Security initiatives serve as models.

Through the DRIVEN Program with the World Bank, the DILG is developing the Philippine Smart Local Governments platform for digital governance and innovation.