The Philippines won four prestigious awards at the 2024 World Travel Awards (WTA) Grand Final Gala Ceremony, held on November 24, 2024 in Portugal.
The country won as the World’s Leading Dive Destination, marking its sixth consecutive win for the category, reinforcing its reputation as a paradise for diving enthusiasts. Adding to its laurels, Manila was named World’s Leading City Destination for the second time since 2023, while Boracay was honored as World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, a testament to its pristine beaches and high-end offerings.
“We are filled with immense pride and gratitude as the Philippines continues to capture the hearts of travelers worldwide, as reflected in these prestigious accolades at the 2024 World Travel Awards," Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.
"These recognitions reaffirm the Department of Tourism’s steadfast commitment to carry out initiatives with sustainability and inclusivity in mind—efforts that have been made possible through the unwavering support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and his vision to establish the Philippines as a leading tourism powerhouse in Asia,” she added.
The DOT also bagged the title of World’s Leading Tourist Board for the very first time, reflecting its successful initiatives in promoting the Philippines as a premier destination. Under the Marcos administration, the Department has prioritized sustainable tourism development projects anchored on the strategies of connectivity, convenience, and (e)quality.
The DOT has made significant strides in advancing sustainable tourism through its National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028, which prioritizes infrastructure development, accessibility improvements, and digital innovations. Key initiatives include the expansion of tourism roads in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the enhancement of airports and seaports alongside the Department of Transportation (DOTr), and the roll-out of enhanced digital connectivity with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).
To enrich the travel experience, the DOT introduced projects such as the Tourist Assistance Call Center, the upgraded Travel PH App, and Tourist Rest Areas in strategic locations nationwide. Visa system improvements and the Cruise Visa Waiver Program, undertaken with the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), have further streamlined travel for international visitors.
In equalizing tourism opportunities across the country, the DOT has diversified its offerings, promoting gastronomy, health and wellness, Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism, heritage and culture, and sports such as golf and surfing. Programs like the Philippine Experience Program: Heritage, Culture, and Arts Caravan, the Tourism Champions Challenge for local government units (LGUs), and the introduction of the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours in Metro Manila, among others, have further enriched visitor experiences.
The Philippines’ latest achievements add to the accolades it garnered at the WTA’s Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony, hosted by the Philippines in September 2024.
During said regional event, the Philippines swept eight regional awards, starting with Asia’s Leading Dive Destination, Asia’s Leading Beach Destination, and Asia’s Leading Island Destination. Iconic landmarks and destinations also brought home awards, with Intramuros, the historic Walled City, named as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction, Boracay receiving the title of Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, and Cebu honored as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination for its romantic charm and world-class venues. In addition, Secretary Frasco received a special award for Transformational Leadership in Tourism. The Philippines also bagged the Asia’s Leading Marketing Campaign 2024 award for Love the Philippines campaign.
“These awards are a testament to the powerful synergy between the public and private sectors, driven by the aspirations set forth by our President for the country’s tourism industry, as well as the unwavering support of Filipinos across the globe," Frasco said.
"We share this remarkable achievement with our dedicated stakeholders and every Filipino who continues to champion our country as a premier global destination. Together, let us continue to invite the world to experience all that there is to love about the Philippines,” she added.
