Sir Next on Digital Ecosystems and Sustainable Ecotourism at La Union Tourism Summit 2026

Nestor “Sir Next” Layderos is a Filipino marketing strategist, technology and digital transformation advocate, professional speaker, and Co-Founder of The International Ecotourism Society Philippines, Inc. (TIESPHI). His La Union Tourism Summit 2026 session connects digital ecosystems and artificial intelligence with sustainable ecotourism management in the Philippines.

At a summit focused on artificial intelligence and the future of tourism, Nestor “Sir Next” Layderos will make the case for digital progress grounded in community benefit and environmental care.

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union — Nestor “Sir Next” Layderos, CPM-Asia, CDMP, CDTP, will serve as a resource speaker and panelist at the La Union Tourism Summit 2026 on September 25. As Co-Founder of The International Ecotourism Society Philippines, Inc. (TIESPHI), he will present “Digital Ecosystems and Sustainable Ecotourism Management” at the Speaker Pro-Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center in Sevilla.

Organized by the Provincial Government of La Union during Tourism Month, the summit carries the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.” It brings tourism leaders, government, enterprises, advocates, and communities into a discussion about the destination’s future.

Digital tools, a shared destination vision

Sir Next’s session, scheduled for 10:30–11:00 AM, explores how connected digital systems can help destinations understand visitor movement, support local enterprises, coordinate public and private stakeholders, and guide decisions with better information. AI and digital platforms can help make tourism more responsive, but their value depends on the outcomes they serve.

Responsible ecotourism also asks whether growth protects natural and cultural resources, respects carrying capacity, includes host communities, and sustains local livelihoods. A destination’s digital ecosystem is therefore larger than any single website, app, or campaign: it includes the people and institutions that use those tools together.

TIESPHI’s work across education, destination and community development, research, networks, and partnerships offers a practical lens for that discussion. Representing the organization, Sir Next will connect his marketing and digital transformation experience with its commitment to responsible tourism.

For destination management, digital ecosystems connect the visitor experience with the work of tourism enterprises, host communities and public agencies. Responsible technology adoption means using artificial intelligence and shared digital touchpoints to support useful information and coordinated service while keeping sustainable ecotourism priorities central. This connection is also part of Sir Next’s AI & Digital Transformation expertise and his tourism and partnership engagements with TIESPHI.

Three perspectives on tourism’s future

Karminn C.D. Daytec Yañgot opens the plenary program at 9:00 AM with “Authenticity vs. Automation in Cultural Tourism.” Sir Next follows at 10:30 AM, after a digital game. At 1:00 PM, Sharlene Zabala-Batin presents “Smart Tourism Frameworks for a Future-Proof Tourism.” An open forum from 2:00–3:00 PM gives participants space to connect the ideas.

Together, the sessions ask how destinations can use technology while keeping cultural authenticity, sustainability, and human connection central to the visitor experience.

A province-wide conversation

Registration begins at 7:30 AM. The opening program includes welcome remarks from Board Member Maria Rosario Eufrosina P. Nisce and a message from Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega, MDA. The day continues with the La Union Tourism Stakeholders’ Night, with registration from 5:00 PM.

The evening program includes messages from Provincial Administrator and OIC-LUPTO Ramon B. Torres, Ph.D., CESE, Vice Governor Eric O. Sibuma, Governor Ortega, and Department of Tourism Regional Director Benjamin D. Manahan Jr. An awarding ceremony will recognize tourism stakeholders through the Green Tourism Enterprise Program, Ulidan Tourism Excellence Award, and Tourism Stakeholders Plaque of Appreciation.

Why the conversation matters

Digital platforms can connect visitors to a destination. Data can help leaders make informed choices. AI can reveal new possibilities. The test is whether those possibilities make La Union a better place for residents as well as visitors.

For Sir Next, the summit is an opportunity to discuss tourism as a connected system of people, places, and decisions. Innovation can help destinations thrive when it is paired with stewardship, community participation, and a long view of their natural and cultural assets.

Event details and official program

La Union Tourism Summit 2026
September 25, 2026 · Registration from 7:30 AM
Speaker Pro-Tempore Francisco I. Ortega Convention Center, Sevilla, City of San Fernando, La Union
Sir Next’s session: Digital Ecosystems and Sustainable Ecotourism Management · 10:30–11:00 AM
Stakeholders’ Night: Registration from 5:00 PM

The venue

For official event updates, visit La Union Tourism on Facebook.

About the Speaker

Nestor “Sir Next” Layderos brings marketing, AI, digital transformation and professional speaking into conversations about tourism and destination development. As Co-Founder of TIESPHI, he connects industry experience with responsible tourism and collaboration. Explore his Speaking & Learning Experiences, learn more about Sir Next, or visit the Sir Next: Tech + Consultancy homepage. More event features are available on NextEVENTS.

Program and promotional images provided for this advance event feature. Session details may be subject to organizer updates.