Quezon City has been recognized as a global leader in climate adaptation and disaster resilience after winning the Frontline Protection Award at the Planet Aqua City Awards, in collaboration with C40 Cities during Venice Climate Week in Venice, Italy.
The award was conferred on Quezon City’s IRISE UP (Intelligent, Resilient, and Integrated Systems for the Urban Population) project, a pioneering climate and disaster resilience platform that harnesses advanced technology, real-time monitoring systems, and artificial intelligence to help protect communities from climate-related hazards.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte said the recognition affirms the city’s commitment to building a safer, more resilient, and climate-ready Quezon City.
“This award reflects the hard work of the city government and our partners in developing innovative solutions that place the safety and welfare of our people at the center of climate action.”
“This award reflects the hard work of the city government and our partners in developing innovative solutions that place the safety and welfare of our people at the center of climate action,” Belmonte said.
“As climate risks continue to intensify, local governments must embrace science, technology, and community participation to strengthen resilience. We are proud that Quezon City’s data-driven efforts are being recognized on the global stage,” the lady mayor added.
“As climate risks continue to intensify, local governments must embrace science, technology, and community participation to strengthen resilience.”
The IRISEUP, developed through the Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (QCDRRMO), integrates a vast network of automated weather stations, flood sensors, and the institutionalized reporting system in the communities.
The platform transforms meteorological and environmental data into localized, impact-based alerts across the city’s 142 barangays, enabling authorities to implement targeted preparedness measures and preemptive evacuations before disasters occur.
The Planet Aqua City Awards recognize cities that are driving innovative and replicable solutions for climate adaptation and water resilience. The Frontline Protection category honors initiatives that effectively safeguard vulnerable communities from the impacts of climate change and disasters.
The recognition underscores Quezon City’s continuing efforts to institutionalize data-driven governance, disaster preparedness, and climate adaptation programs that protect communities and ensure sustainable urban development.
With the help of initiatives such as IRISE UP, the city continues to strengthen resilience and empower communities in the face of growing climate and environmental challenges.
