By Katrina Gracia Consebido
The Philippines was hailed as the World’s Leading Dive Destinations and the World’s Leading Beach Destination at the 29th World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony in Muscat, Oman.
Its winning streak continues for the fourth time in the World’s Leading Dive Destination, besting the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, Cayman Islands, Maldives, Fiji, Mexico, Azores Islands, French Polynesia, Galapagos Islands, St. Kitts, and Belize.
The Philippines was also hailed as the World’s Leading Beach Destination which topped other beaches in the world including Maldives, The Algarve in Portugal, Jamaica, Galapagos, Islands in Equador, Turks, and Caicos Islands.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco expressed gratitude for the appreciation and recognition of the award giving body to the Philippines.
“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.
Frasco added that the Marcos administration will continue to improve the Philippine tourism sector and promote the rich tourist destinations, as well as the development of “less-known areas” in different regions in the country.
She also said that the recognition given to the country will be a “source of inspiration” for the Department of Tourism to “work even harder” for the industry, which is a “major pillar of economic growth and source of livelihood for millions of Filipinos.”
“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 Filipinos brand to the world,” she continued.
Meanwhile, three other tourism partner establishments also shared the World Travel Awards distinction: Amanpulo (World’s Leading Dive Resort 2022), City of Dreams Manila (World’s Leading Casino Resort 2022), and Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila (World’s Leading Serviced Apartment 2022).
The DOT was also nominated as the World’s Leading Tourist Board this year, Siargao Island as the World’s Leading Island Destination, and Intramuros as the World’s Leading Tourist Attraction. -ag
