Photo from Smart Newsroom

In earlier news reports, San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora reveals plans to transform his hometown into a smart city beginning with the construction of high-rise buildings and providing internet coverage.

The local government taps PLDT wireless subsidiary Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) to fulfill the latter when it inked an agreement to power key sites in the city with fast, free and open fiber-powered Wi-Fi by deploying Google Station.

“It is our thrust to make San Juan a smart city and we begin by providing free Wi-Fi (for all),” Zamora said. “We want to be digitally connected with the assistance of Smart and Multisys (Technologies Corp.).”

Have you read “Smart to roll out Google Station for free Wi-Fi in Intramuros, Luneta”?

Multisys software and IT solutions provider assigned to develop the San Juan City app, mobile kiosk, and e-wallet services for the city’s residents.

“We are happy to work with the San Juan City government in realizing their smart city vision. We look forward to helping Mayor Francis Zamora further enhance his government’s ability to respond even more efficiently to the needs of his constituents and elevate San Juan to be at par with other modern cities in Asia and the world,” said PLDT chair Manuel V. Pangilinan in a media release.

Google Station is already available in key areas in the city such as the City Hall of San Juan. In addition, it is also available in medical and shopping areas such as Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Virra Mall, and Greenhills Shopping Center.

Users just need to reconnect to the free public WiFi every 30 minutes.

Zamora also showcased the San Juan app and e-kiosks that residents can use for several government services such as paying and securing Mayor or Business Permits.

Also at the signing ceremonies were PLDT chief revenue officer and Smart president Alfredo Panlilio and San Juan City Vice Mayor Warren Villa.

Google Station is also available in other heavy foot-traffic areas such as airports and other transportation hubs like bus stations and seaports, hospitals, tertiary schools, and malls.