CONTACT:
CZARINA ZARA-LOYOLA
Assistant Secretary
Strategic Communications and Public Affairs
czloyola@tourism.gov.ph
The Philippines once again proved its global tourism prowess after clinching six major recognitions at the prestigious 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony held on Monday (Oct. 13).
This year, the country marked its eighth win as Asia’s Leading Beach Destination, highlighting its pristine coastlines and world-famous beaches.
As a strong testament of its thriving marine life and dive sites, the Philippines also claimed its seventh consecutive recognition since 2019 as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination. A back-to-back victory as Asia’s Leading Island Destination was likewise earned, solidifying the country’s place among the region’s most captivating tropical getaways.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco lauded the recognition as a testament to the country’s sustained commitment in further strengthening the industry and the tireless efforts of tourism frontliners and stakeholders across the country.
“These awards reaffirm the country’s place among the world’s premier destinations. More than the recognition, this is a celebration of the people, especially our tourism frontliners—the guides, hospitality workers, weavers, boatmen, and countless others—whose warmth, hospitality, and resilience continue to inspire travelers from all over the globe,” Secretary Frasco said.
“As the Philippine tourism industry continues to capture global recognition, we remain committed to strengthening the country’s position as a top destination of choice. We continue to empower our people with meaningful livelihood opportunities, foster sustainable growth in our local communities, and ensure that every traveler experiences the world-class warmth and hospitality that define the Filipino brand of service with excellence,” the tourism chief added.
The Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) also earned a global distinction as the Asia’s Leading Tourist Board, recognizing its steadfast commitment to promoting a resilient, inclusive and globally competitive tourism industry.
Several iconic Philippine destinations likewise received individual accolades at this year’s WTA, with Boracay’s back-to-back win as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination and Clark Freeport Zone global recognition as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination.
The annual gala ceremony gathered industry leaders and government officials from Asia and Oceania to honor and award excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry.
Established in 1993 and regarded as the industry’s ultimate hallmark of quality, the WTA celebrates destinations and organizations that set the benchmark for world-class hospitality and tourism.