Smart cities in the Philippines must be anchored on “smart governance” and decisive human leadership rather than a sole reliance on high-tech infrastructure, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chief said in a report by BusinessWorld .
“Technology is important, but technology is our gateway. And we believe that leadership is what makes it work. It’s always the human component,” the MMDA chief emphasized, underscoring that effective governance and strong decision-making are essential to translating technological investments into tangible benefits for urban residents.
The remarks come amid growing interest in smart city initiatives across the country, where local governments are deploying digital tools for traffic management, public safety, and service delivery. The MMDA chief’s focus on leadership serves as a reminder that institutional capacity and political will are as vital as the latest innovations.