Manila gets award for disaster innovation

MANILA, Philippines — The Manila city government received a special recognition yesterday in San Diego, California for its use of geographic information systems (GIS) in disaster response.

Manila is the sole awardee from the Philippines among the 197 organizations cited for the Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) Award by global geospatial technology leader Esri.

According to Mayor Isko Moreno, the integration of geospatial technology has improved the city’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities through digital mapping, spatial analysis and real-time data monitoring.

“We did not win this award by accident. This is the result of hard work, innovation and dedication by our disaster risk reduction and GIS teams. I am proud of every single one of them,” Moreno said as he received the award.

“When we invest in technology like GIS, we are investing in the safety and welfare of every Manileño. This is your government working for the people,” he added.

Manila was joined by 24 other cities from Israel, Japan, Jordan, Puerto Rico, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and the United States.