Dr. Czar Jakiri Sarmiento of the UP Department of Geodetic Engineering has been conferred the Gawad Pangulo para sa Natatanging Inobasyon under the Faculty Category for his leadership in developing Lungsod Solutions, a breakthrough platform that integrates geospatial technology and citizen-centered design for smarter and more responsive cities. The Gawad Pangulo, the highest distinction awarded by the University of the Philippines, honors exemplary individuals and groups who embody the values of honor and excellence in public service. The awarding was held during the 2025 Linggo ng Unibersidad.

Lungsod Solutions is a comprehensive urban management system composed of City Command and City Connect components. City Command serves as a central control platform and smart data hub, equipped with a digital twin of the city that allows real-time visualization of infrastructure, hazards, and operations. City Connect, on the other hand, is a suite of mobile applications designed to improve citizen engagement by providing easy access to local services, enabling issue reporting, promoting tourism, and supporting local businesses.

Piloted in Iloilo City from 2021 to 2023 through the support of the Department of Science and Technology – PCIEERD, the project demonstrated how real-time analytics, spatial data, and public feedback can be combined to support better planning, faster response, and stronger community participation. The city’s command center and mobile applications were co-developed with the local government, resulting in active adoption, policy support, and operational integration. A 3D digital twin of the city was also developed, which is now used by the city government for planning and emergency management.

Beyond Iloilo, Lungsod Solutions has attracted interest from other local government units, which has initiated discussions to implement the platform as part of its digital transformation strategy. The project is also being positioned as a scalable, modular solution that can be adopted by other cities across the country, especially under the national movement for smart, resilient, and sustainable communities.

In addition to Dr. Sarmiento’s recognition, the University also honored the following awardees from the UP College of Engineering in this year’s Gawad Pangulo: the Electrical and Electronics Engineering Institute (EEEI) for Gawad Pangulo para sa Natatanging Akademikong Institusyon, the UP Epsilon Chi Fraternity Alumni, Inc. (UPECFAI) for Gawad Pangulo para sa Natatanging Alumni, and Watch! Tap! Shop! with Dr. Erickson Llaguno for Gawad Pangulo para sa Natatanging Inobasyon ng Mag-aaral.

Congratulations to Dr. Czar Jakiri Sarmiento and the team behind Lungsod Solutions for this well-earned distinction. We are proud of your dedication to public service and innovation in shaping smarter cities for the Filipino people.