MAKATI CITY — Makati is preparing to deepen its engagement with international smart-city initiatives as it looks ahead to its second participation in the Smart City Summit & Expo in Taipei, Taiwan, in 2027. The city’s preparations gained momentum following a courtesy visit by Henry Chen of the Taipei Computer Association (TCA) to Makati City Hall, where discussions centered on the upcoming international gathering. City Administrator Atty. Marianne Lozada received Chen on behalf of the city leadership, using the meeting to explore opportunities for continued cooperation between Makati and the Taiwanese organization. The planned return signals the city’s intention to sustain its involvement in conversations on how technology and innovation can help address the evolving needs of urban communities.
Building Connections Through International Exchange
Beyond preparations for the expo, the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss how knowledge-sharing and stronger institutional ties could support Makati’s smart-city initiatives. The Taipei Computer Association, which organizes the Smart City Summit & Expo, serves as a platform connecting government representatives, technology providers and other stakeholders working on urban innovation. Its international gathering allows participating cities to learn about approaches and solutions developed in different settings, including digital systems, public services and sustainable urban development. For Makati, taking part for a second time offers another avenue to engage with these networks, gain exposure to emerging practices and identify ideas that may be relevant to local priorities.
Turning Global Insights Into Local Opportunities
The 2027 edition of the Smart City Summit & Expo is scheduled for March 16 to 19 in Taipei, bringing together international participants to examine technology-driven responses to urban challenges. Its theme, “AI-Driven Resilient and Sustainable Cities,” highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in areas such as climate resilience, energy transition and public services. Makati’s participation would give the city another opportunity to exchange perspectives with international counterparts and explore developments that could inform its continuing modernization efforts. While the courtesy visit did not specify particular projects or agreements, the discussion established a foundation for further engagement as the city prepares for the international event.
