The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Pampanga (HARP) headed by its president Donna Ravina of Microtel Pampanga and Tarlac hosted its monthly General Membership Meeting on July 30, 2024, at Friendship Garden Restaurant, focusing prominently on the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalization in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Regional Director Garry A. Garcia of Philippines Swiss-Belhotel International Hotels & Resorts delivered a key presentation on Artificial Intelligence and Digitalization Trends in the Philippine Hospitality Industry. Garcia provided a clear overview of how modern technology is reshaping the industry. He addressed common misconceptions about AI, underscoring that it should be viewed as a tool for enhancing human roles rather than replacing them. His insights emphasized the benefits of leveraging AI and digital advancements to streamline daily operations and management processes.
The meeting also underscored the growing impact of digital trends on the Philippine tourism industry, highlighting how technology is increasingly used to improve visitor experiences, promote destinations, and support tourism sustainability. Garcia’s talk was timely, reflecting the urgent need for industry professionals to grasp the evolving digital landscape and its implications both locally and globally.
In addition to Garcia’s presentation, the meeting featured product/service presentors from Generation One Resource and Service Multipurpose Cooperative, FCS Solutions, and Poultrypure Farms Corporation.
Raffle prizes were generously provided by member-sponsors Eurotel Angeles Pampanga, CHON NOM RESTO, Servo IT Solutions, and Poultrypure Farms.
Upcoming HARP events include the HARP Cook Off Challenge Year 9 on September 27, 2024, at SM Pampanga, a PCO Training/Seminar on August 19 & 20 at Bendix Hotel, CSFP, and the iOrbitNews Online 8th Anniversary Print Issue set for August, featuring special advertisement discounts for HARP members.
iOrbitNews is the official media partner of HARP. The partnership was signed in August 2023 under the leadership of former president Matt de Castro.