Manila Bags Global Tech Award for Innovative Disaster Management

Courtesy: Manila PIO / Isko Moreno Dumagoso (Facebook)

The City Government of Manila has achieved global recognition as the lone Philippine honoree at the 2026 Esri User Conference, capturing the prestigious Special Achievement in GIS (SAG) Award for its advanced use of geospatial technology in disaster risk mitigation.

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso personally accepted the international accolade during a presentation ceremony on Wednesday afternoon, local time (Thursday morning in Manila). The capital city emerged as a standout selection among 197 organizations worldwide, chosen from a pool of over 700,000 Esri technology users.

The SAG Award is designated for institutions that demonstrate pioneering leadership and excellence in utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to resolve critical public sector challenges. Manila was commended for successfully implementing real-time data monitoring, digital mapping, and spatial analytics to revolutionize emergency response systems for fires, floods, and structural hazards across its six districts.

Accepting the award, Mayor Domagoso attributed the success to the hard work of the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (DRRMD), stating,

"Hindi po ito tsamba. Bunga ito ng sipag, dedikasyon, at inobasyon ng ating Manila DRRMD sa pangunguna ni Director Arnel Eustacio Angeles, ng ating GIS Team, at ng lahat ng kawani na walang sawang naglilingkod para sa kaligtasan ng bawat Manileño"

 

(This is not a coincidence. It is the result of the hard work, dedication, and innovation of our Manila DRRMD under the leadership of Director Arnel Eustacio Angeles, our GIS Team, and all the staff who tirelessly serve for the safety of every Manileño.).

Manila joins an elite 2026 cohort including Singapore’s Land Transport Authority and international aid groups.

Key city officials accompanied Mayor Domagoso in California for the awarding ceremony, highlighting the administration's commitment to data-driven governance. Domagoso noted that using advanced geospatial tools strengthens city resources and enhances public safety, promising continued investment in digital, climate-resilient solutions.