By Brian Campued
Summer might have come to an end in the Philippines, but Filipinos cannot resist the call of the sea!
Known for its sardine run attraction, Panagsama Beach in Moalboal, Cebu has been named as one of the “Best Beaches in Southeast Asia” by the luxury and lifestyle travel magazine, Condé Nast Traveler (CNT).
In an article published on September 2, the international magazine noted that Panagsama Beach may not be the go-to spot for tourists “looking for a silky sand beach,” because of its rocky coastline.
“It’s not the beach itself, but what lies in the nearby sea that earns it a place as one of the best beaches in Southeast Asia,” the CNT article read.
Despite the rugged features of the beach, Panagsama boasts abundant marine life—with schools of fish gathering in “a fascinating display,” particularly during the peak season between November and April of the next year.
Also included in CNT’s list are: Tonsai Beach in Krabi, Thailand; Coral Bay in Perhentian Kecil, Malaysia; Bawah Reserve in Bawah Island, Indonesia; Cat Co 3 in Cát Bà Island, Vietnam; Saracen Bay in Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia; and Buffalo Bay in Koh Payam, Thailand.
Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT) lauded Panagsama’s “natural beauty and extraordinary underwater treasures” that made it one of the best beaches in the region.
“The DOT invites travelers to discover Moalboal, Cebu, that sets the Philippines apart as a must-visit destination for beach and underwater enthusiasts,” it said in a Facebook post Friday.
Cebu was recently recognized as Asia’s leading wedding destination for 2024 during the World Travel Awards – Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony in Pasay City last September 3.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, who served as mayor of Liloan, Cebu, was also conferred the Transformational Leader Award in Tourism Governance. – avds/av