The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Intelligent City initiative was formally signed in Tokyo, Japan on May 28, 2026. The historic signing was witnessed by President Ferdinand Marcos, Department of Trade and Industries (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque, Ayala Corporation Vice Chairman Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Ayala Corporation President and CEO Cezar Consing, and Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz, underscoring the national and international significance of this milestone partnership.
IN PHOTO: KDDI President and CEO Hiromichi Matsuda; Mitsubishi Corporation President and CEO Katsuya Nakanishi; Department of Trade and Industry Secretary Cristina Roque; Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.; Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene Garcia Albano; Ayala Corporation Vice Chairman Fernando Zobel de Ayala; and Chief Social Infrastructure Officer Paolo F. Borromeo.
TOKYO, JAPAN — The future of urban living in the Philippines took center stage as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Ayala Corporation, Globe Telecom, Mitsubishi Corporation, and KDDI Corporation to develop the country’s first-ever Intelligent City, with the Makati Central Business District (CBD) identified as the pilot location.
The agreement, signed on May 28 in Tokyo, marks a pioneering collaboration among some of the Philippines’ and Japan’s most influential companies to create a digitally enabled urban ecosystem powered by artificial intelligence, advanced connectivity, data-driven platforms, and sustainable technologies.
The signing ceremony was also attended by Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Cristina Roque, Ayala Corporation Vice Chairman Fernando Zobel de Ayala, Ayala Corporation President and CEO Cezar Consing, and Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz, underscoring the strategic importance of the initiative to both nations.
The Intelligent City project aims to transform Makati CBD into a model urban district where technology seamlessly enhances everyday life—from mobility and energy management to retail experiences, public services, and digital connectivity.
By integrating AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and intelligent city platforms, the initiative seeks to create a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient urban environment capable of responding to the evolving needs of residents, businesses, and visitors.
“Ayala Corp. has always believed in building communities that uplift lives,” said Ayala President and CEO Cezar Consing. “Through this initiative, we are reimagining Makati CBD as a hub of innovation, where technology and human connection converge to create a city that truly serves its people.”
As the project’s connectivity partner, Globe will provide the digital infrastructure needed to support intelligent city applications and services. The company’s network will serve as the backbone for innovations that rely on real-time data, smart systems, and seamless digital experiences.
“Connectivity has become the lifeblood of progress—the Fifth Utility that empowers nations to grow and thrive,” said Globe President and CEO Carl Cruz. “Globe is excited to showcase its consistent and reliable network to transform our cities, ensuring that every Filipino has access to the tools, opportunities, and digital experiences they need to keep moving forward in an increasingly connected world.”
The partnership also highlights the growing role of international collaboration in shaping the future of Philippine cities. By combining Ayala’s expertise in community building, Globe’s digital leadership, and the technological capabilities of Mitsubishi and KDDI, the initiative aims to set new standards for smart and sustainable urban development in the country.
For DTI Secretary Cristina Roque, the project represents more than just a technological milestone—it is a strategic investment in the nation’s economic future.
“The launch of the Intelligent City initiative in Makati CBD is a powerful step toward shaping the future of Philippine commerce and industry,” Roque said. “By harnessing advanced connectivity, AI, and sustainable technologies, we are creating an environment where businesses can innovate and opportunities become more inclusive.”
She added that the initiative will strengthen the country’s competitiveness by equipping Filipino enterprises and entrepreneurs with the tools needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
As the Philippines accelerates its digital transformation agenda, the Intelligent City project is expected to serve as a blueprint for future developments nationwide, demonstrating how innovation and connectivity can create smarter, safer, and more livable communities.
More than a technology project, the initiative represents a bold vision for the future—one where cities are designed around people, powered by innovation, and connected by purpose. Through this groundbreaking partnership, Makati CBD is poised to become the country’s first showcase of what an intelligent, future-ready Philippine city can be.