BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  — The City Government under Mayor Benjamin Magalong,  has formally received the brass plaque and adobe trophy commemorating the Summer Capital’s international recognition at the prestigious 6th Edition of the Tehran Golden Adobe Global Awards – Top Urban Projects & Experiences 2025, held in Tehran, Iran.

The award, titled “Certificate of Achievement for Urban Resilience Through Digital Innovation Project,” was officially turned over to the city by officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) – Consular Office Baguio at the City Mayor’s Office.

Baguio was announced as one of the winners during the closing ceremony of the Tehran Urban Summit, which took place from November 27 to 29, 2025, and stemmed from the city’s successful application submitted by the City Planning, Development, and Sustainability Office (CPDSO), highlighting Baguio’s innovative Livability Index and Digital Twin Initiative.

CPDSO head Donna Rillera Tabangin said the award honored 15 outstanding projects from around the world across five categories: architecture, livability, infrastructure, smart cities, and urban economy.

Baguio City joined an elite roster of award-winning cities that included Tehran, Isfahan, Yazd, Shiraz, and Qazvin in Iran, as well as Dubai in the United Arab Emirates and Kazan in Russia.

It recognizes cities that have implemented innovative projects and initiatives that promote urban resilience, sustainability, and smart governance.

Baguio’s Livability Index and Digital Twin Initiative were cited as exemplary efforts in advancing data-driven urban planning and fostering a more resilient and intelligent community, Tabangin said.

City officials thanked the DFA Consular Office Baguio for its support and for facilitating the successful turnover of the international award.

“The recognition further reinforces Baguio City’s position as a leader in innovative urban development and digital transformation, both in the Philippines and on the global stage,” Tabangin stressed.-Gaby B. Keith