The Philippines has been hailed the leading dive and beach destination in the world by the 29th World Travel Award, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced Tuesday.
In a statement, DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said this is the country’s four-straight year of winning the two world titles.
Three tourism establishments also received world travel distinction awards. The Amanpulo in Palawan was named as the World's Leading Dive Resort; City of Dreams Manila as the World's Leading Casino Resort; and Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila as the World's Leading Serviced Apartments.
"These global victories for the Philippines evince the unparalleled beauty of our country and the distinct warmth of the Filipino people. We sincerely thank the World Travel Awards and everyone from all over the world whose vote of confidence is timely as the Philippines fully opens its arms to welcome tourists to our shores," Frasco said.
Other travel destinations nominated for this year are Siargao as the world's leading island destination and Intramuros as the world's leading tourist attraction.
The DOT, on the other hand, got nominated as the world's leading tourist board.
Frasco said under the vision of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr., the department would continue enhancing the development and promotion of travel destinations, especially lesser-known sites in the country.
“These Awards are a source of inspiration for us in the Department of Tourism to work even harder as the Marcos administration ushers in the resurgence of the tourism industry as a major pillar of economic growth and source of livelihood for millions of Filipinos,” she said.
“As we anticipate the influx of more tourists, we shall continue the work to improve the overall tourist experience in the Philippines, and herald the best of the Filipino brand to the world," the tourism chief added.
The WTA is an annual award ceremony that recognizes the distinct excellence of all key sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries across the world.
