PPP Center highlights partnerships in Smart City development

Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center Director Raphael M. Badillo emphasized the importance of increasing PPP projects during a webinar hosted by the British Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines on Monday.

The event, which highlighted Smart Cities, focused on the growing demand for IT infrastructure development as the country moves further into a phase of rapid technological advancement.

The discussions highlighted the advantages of implementing infrastructure through PPPs, noting that these projects ensure an integrated approach, more efficient public service delivery, and optimal risk allocation—factors that contribute to reduced project costs.

The webinar also explored the concept of "Smart Cities," which Badillo described as a holistic and innovative approach to urban development, leveraging modern technology and planning strategies.

“We also try to develop certain infrastructure that would make our daily lives more efficient,” he said.

Examples of smart city initiatives include smart mobility and transport systems for seamless travel, smart energy solutions to make government buildings more energy-efficient, and smart education through the integration of digital infrastructure and learning modules to enhance educational outcomes.

Badillo stated that the Smart Cities framework aims to boost productivity, optimize resource use, and improve public safety, health, well-being, and the overall quality of life.