The Philippines has once again demonstrated its status as one of Asia’s premier tourism destinations by clinching a total of eight recognitions at the 31st World Travel Awards (WTA). This is the first time the country hosted the prestigious travel and tourism awards gala ceremony through the combined efforts of the Department of Tourism and its attached agency, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.
During the Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony 2024 at the City of Dreams held on Tuesday (Sep. 3), the Philippines was honored as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination for the sixth consecutive year since 2019, as it bagged the titles of Asia’s Leading Beach Destination and Asia’s Leading Island Destination.
Some of the country’s top destinations also took center stage at this year’s WTA, with the historic Walled City of Intramuros recognized as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction, while Boracay nailed the title of Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, and Cebu as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination.
Meanwhile, a special award was given to DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco recognizing the tourism chief for her transformational leadership in tourism, citing her “outstanding contributions to tourism governance” and “vision, tireless dedication, and the tangible impacts of her initiatives have set a new benchmark in tourism leadership, not just in the Philippines but across Asia and Oceania.”
“The past two years have been a period of incredible growth and transformation for the Philippines. Under the leadership of our President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr, we have embarked on a path of dynamic tourism development, investing heavily in infrastructure, improving connectivity across our 7,641 islands, enhancing the overall tourism experience, and most importantly, investing in our greatest asset, our people. The Filipino people, with their innate warmth, resilience, and passion, are at the heart of Philippine tourism. They are the embodiment of the essence of our culture, the genuine smiles, the unparalleled service, and the authentic experiences that leave a lasting impression upon every traveler. We are committed to empowering our people with the skills, the support, and the opportunities that they need to consistently deliver world-class tourism experiences,” Secretary Frasco said in her speech.
As may be recalled, Frasco has led a series of innovative programs upon taking the helm of the DOT as part of her shared commitment to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s vision to transform the Philippines into a tourism powerhouse in Asia.
“We have responded to the challenges that we have faced with courage and innovation, harnessing the strength of our culture and heritage and turning them into unique, unforgettable experiences. Through diversification, we are now expanding to new horizons, enhancing and expanding our offerings beyond sun, sea, and sand to include wellness and health, adventure, cruise, halal, cultural, and culinary experiences,” the DOT chief added.
The Philippines also bagged the Asia’s Leading Marketing Campaign 2024 award for Love the Philippines campaign.
Last year, the Philippines also bagged several awards at the 30th WTA, including the first-ever Global Tourism Resilience award, which the country proudly shared with four other nations.
For more information on the WTA and complete list of 2024 winners, please visit the official WTA website.