The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Isabela State University (ISU), and the City Government of Cauayan officially launched the 3rd International Smart City Exposition and Networking Engagement (iSCENE 2025) today, May 22, at the Isabela Convention Center (ICON), Cauayan City, Isabela setting in motion a dynamic three-day convergence of leaders, thinkers, and innovators dedicated to reshaping local governance through science and technology.
Anchored on the theme, “Innovation in Action: Empowering Smart and Sustainable Communities Through Government-Academe-Industry Collaboration”, iSCENE 2025 has grown into one of the country’s most significant platforms for showcasing transformative digital solutions tailored to Philippine communities.
The event opened by welcoming remarks from Mayor Caesar S. Dy Jr., who reaffirmed Cauayan City’s role as a model for people-first smart governance.
DOST Undersecretary Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang emphasized the importance of localizing science, technology, and innovation. “This is what iSCENE is all about: a space for dialogue, learning, and action, where we forge solutions that are not only innovative but practical, tangible, and impactful,” he stated.
Delivering the keynote address through a video message, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. highlighted the strategic role of iSCENE in nation-building and resilience:
“We are no longer just preparing for disasters—we are building systems that adapt, learn, and evolve. That’s the essence of iSCENE: a space where communities co-design their futures through data, collaboration, and science-based innovation.”
A ceremonial MOA signing was also conducted that marked strengthened commitments among DOST R02, ISU, CHED R02, PCCI North Luzon, and LGUs—including a notable partnership with LGU Narra, Palawan and DOST-MIMAROPA for the Smart Sustainable Communities Program (SSCP).
Moreover, message of support was delivered by leaders from DILG, DICT, CHED, DHSUD, Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), Amazon Web Services, and other national and regional institutions.
The iSCENE 2025 will feature diverse activities, including: Hack4Resilience – A disaster tech hackathon utilizing AI and Big Data; MOCCOV Olympics – A mobile smart response challenge; RoboFusion – Robotics workshops and competitions; GridLock Games – The launch of locally developed eSports titles; Kathabi Fashion Show – Showcasing innovations in Philippine textiles; Technology Exhibits & Reverse Pitching – Highlighting scalable solutions in water, agriculture, health, and climate tech; Speaker Series – Capacity-building with ASEAN thought leaders and Smart and Sustainable Communities Awards – Honoring LGU-led innovation.
What began as a localized initiative in Cauayan City has now evolved into a national platform. iSCENE has catalyzed regional expos, accelerated LGU modernization, and inspired collaborative innovation across the country.
iSCENE event is not just about cities becoming smarter—it’s about making communities becoming stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient.
As iSCENE 2025 unfolds, one message echoes across all sessions: Innovation is no longer optional—it is imperative. And in Region 02, innovation is already in action.
Also present at the opening ceremonies were RD Virginia G. Bilgera, DOST CAR RD Dr. Nancy Bantog, DICT RD Dr. Pinky Jimenez, OCD Mr. Ronald L. Villa, ISU President Dr. Boyet Batang, DEPDev RD Dioniso C. Ledres, Jr, Area Vice President for North Luzon of PCCI, Atty. Maria Amalia Tiglao- Cayanan, Strategic Growth Leader, APJ Amazon Web Services (AWS), Mr. Samerr Puranik and DHSUD R02 OIC-RD Grave A. De Vera, Regional Line Agencies, Media, among others.