As the world emerges from the shadow of the pandemic, the travel industry is undergoing a profound transformation. At the heart of this evolution is the convergence of the Internet of Things (IoT), TravelTech, and generative AI, which promises to reshape the way we experience travel. This technology-driven revolution is not a distant dream but a present reality. In the Philippines, one of the key figures leading this transformation is Alexander Que, Chairman of AIQUE Innovation Technology Corporation.
Chairman Alex Que is a visionary entrepreneur committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology to revolutionize the travel industry. With a passion for innovation and a deep love for his country, Que envisions a future where traveling is as effortless as booking a ride on a smartphone app. His company is at the forefront of integrating IoT and AI into TravelTech, aiming to offer travelers a seamless experience from start to finish.
A Superapp for travel
Que’s journey began as the pandemic forced people to stay home, drastically impacting the travel industry. Recognizing the pent-up demand for travel and the need for safer, more efficient solutions, Que and his team explored how IoT and AI could revolutionize the travel experience. They envisioned a comprehensive system where travelers could book all aspects of their journey—flights, hotels, local transportation—through a single platform.
“The pandemic highlighted the gaps in our travel infrastructure,” Que explains. “We saw an opportunity to develop technology that could make travel seamless and stress-free. Our goal was to create an integrated system that connects all parts of the journey, from planning to execution, all in one app.”
IoT as an unlikely hero
IoT technology plays a critical role in Que’s vision. He believes that IoT can enhance every aspect of travel, from real-time tracking of transportation to seamless ticketing and payment systems. One of the standout innovations AIQUE is working on is an IoT-enabled ticketing system that integrates with digital payment platforms. This system not only tracks bus and ferry locations but also validates tickets in real-time, providing travelers with up-to-the-minute information and a hassle-free experience.
AI voice assistants are another cornerstone of Que’s strategy, which his company was building even before the rise in popularity of AI apps like ChatGPT. These assistants can help users manage their travel plans, offering real-time updates and personalized recommendations. “We wanted to create a seamless experience for travelers, and AI voice assistants are a crucial part of that vision,” Que says. “They can provide timely information, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.”
While technological advancements are essential, Que emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the private sector, government, and the community in advancing TravelTech. He advocates for a supportive ecosystem where startups, universities, and industry players can work together to develop and implement innovative solutions.
“The private sector can drive technological advancements, but the government plays a crucial role in providing a conducive environment and regulatory support,” Que notes. “We need collaboration at all levels to fully realize the potential of TravelTech.”
Que also highlights the significance of data privacy in these innovations. “We always comply with data privacy regulations to ensure the safety of all users,” he assures. “Our systems are designed to protect user data while providing the necessary functionalities for a seamless travel experience.”
Entrepreneurs need to see beyond the bottom line
For Que, the success of these technological innovations extends beyond business metrics. He envisions a broader impact, where these advancements contribute to making the Philippines a top travel destination. “As Filipinos, we love our country and want it to be recognized globally,” he says. “By improving our travel infrastructure and experiences, we can attract more tourists and boost our economy.”
Que’s commitment to long-term impact is also reflected in his approach to entrepreneurship and investment. He believes that angel investors and entrepreneurs should look beyond short-term gains and focus on sustainable business models that contribute to national growth. “Angel investors play a crucial role by providing funding and mentorship to startups. They need to look at the long-term impact of their investments, not just financial returns,” he asserts.
Looking ahead, Que is optimistic about the future of TravelTech in the Philippines. He acknowledges the challenges, such as ensuring data privacy, managing technology integration, and fostering collaboration. However, he is confident that with the right mindset and support, the country can overcome these hurdles and emerge as a leader in TravelTech.
“Competition is natural, but collaboration is essential for the industry’s growth,” Que concludes. “We welcome contributions from various players in IoT, startups, and TravelTech. By working together, we can create a thriving ecosystem that benefits everyone and elevates the travel industry in the Philippines.”
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of technology in enhancing travel experiences cannot be overstated. Through the efforts of visionary leaders like Chairman Alex Que, the Philippines is poised to lead the way in creating seamless, tech-driven travel experiences that cater to the needs of the modern traveler. The journey towards a fully integrated, technology-enhanced travel experience is just beginning, and the future looks promising.
