The National Center for Transportation Studies (NCTS) recently welcomed visitors from the University of Tokyo’s Center for Spatial Information Science (CSIS). The delegation included Prof. Yoshihide Sekimoto, CSIS Director; Ms. Jeongwon Seo, Consultant at ADB; Ms. Mirei Katsuya, a master’s student; and Ms. Sakura Tsuchida and Mr. Tetsuta Ito, both undergraduate students.

The visit took place on September 15, 2026, at the NCTS Seminar Room A. A short program was hosted by Ms. Maribelle Lobendino, NCTS REPS and Student Affairs Coordinator, and attended by NCTS Director Jun Castro, who delivered the welcome remarks alongside NCTS personnel.

The visit aimed to explore potential collaborations with Philippine researchers, particularly in the fields of transport, logistics, GIS, ICT, and urban planning. The delegation also sought to engage with public-sector and industry experts.

Prof. Sekimoto presented an overview of their educational initiative, “Asia x ICT 2026: Manila,” which examines how ICT and digital technologies can address urban and social challenges across Asia. The program encourages students to develop feasibility-level proposals and collaborate with local universities and public agencies to contextualize their research. Since its inception in 2012, the program has conducted field exchanges in 14 cities across Asia.

The current feasibility study focuses on linking port operations and urban traffic management through data integration. The student team is investigating how ICT and real-time data can enhance coordination between port activities and city traffic systems.

The visitors expressed appreciation for the insights, comments, and suggestions shared by the NCTS Director and the Research, Extension, and Professional Staff. NCTS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the group’s ongoing studies and collaborative efforts.