DOT Region 2 Holds 2nd Regional Tourism Summit Focused on AI and the Future of Tourism
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 2 staged its 2nd Regional Tourism Summit, bringing together tourism officers, industry stakeholders, and partners to explore how artificial intelligence (AI), tourism intelligence, digital innovation, and compelling storytelling can shape the future of tourism in the Cagayan Valley on September 25, 2026 at the Isabela Convention Center, Cauayan City, Isabela.
Anchored on the theme of innovation and technology in tourism, the summit featured distinguished resource speakers who shared insights on the evolving tourism landscape and the opportunities presented by AI and data-driven approaches.
Dr. John Paolo Rivera of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) discussed “Every Destination Has a Story: Crafting Narratives That Connect,” emphasizing the importance of meaningful destination narratives in creating deeper connections between places, communities, and travelers.
Dr. Eylla Laire Gutierrez of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) tackled “Data-Driven Destinations: Leveraging AI and Tourism Intelligence for Smarter Decision-Making,” highlighting the value of data and emerging technologies in strengthening tourism planning, management, and decision-making.
Meanwhile, Dr. Celyrah Castillo of Central Luzon State University presented “From Viral to Valuable: Creating Tourism Content That Converts Inspiration into Travel,” focusing on the role of strategic digital content in transforming online engagement into actual travel interest and visitor experiences.
The summit also featured a Tourism Talk, providing an avenue for tourism officers and industry stakeholders to raise questions, clarify concerns, and gain practical insights on issues affecting tourism development and operations.
Delivering the keynote message on behalf of Secretary Christina G. Frasco, Regional Director Dr. Troy Alexander G. Miano underscored the importance of preparing Philippine tourism for a rapidly changing environment through innovation, artificial intelligence, and the distinctly Filipino brand of hospitality.
The participants were welcomed by Isabela Provincial Tourism Officer Joanne Dy Maranan, who highlighted the importance of collaboration and shared learning in advancing tourism development in the region.
Adding a business and digital solutions perspective, representatives from GCash Public Sector for North Luzon and Universal Storefront Services Corporation (USSC) shared their respective services and solutions designed to provide tourism stakeholders and MSMEs with more flexible, fit, and accessible options for business transactions.
The summit was hosted and moderated by Dr. John Kit Masigan, who facilitated the discussions and exchanges throughout the program.
The 2nd Regional Tourism Summit reflects DOT Region 2’s continuing commitment to equip its tourism stakeholders with the knowledge, tools, and partnerships needed to navigate the future of tourism—where technology and data complement, rather than replace, the creativity, stories, culture, and warm hospitality that make destinations uniquely Filipino.#