By Brian Campued
The Philippines marked its eight win as Asia’s Leading Beach Destination at the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA), reaffirming the country’s place among the world’s premier havens for tourists looking for pristine beaches.
During the 2025 WTA – Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony in Hong Kong on Monday, the Philippines went on to bag its seventh consecutive win as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination as well as a back-to-back victory for Asia’s Leading Island Destination category.
Boracay Island likewise won as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, a recognition it also clinched in 2024, and Clark Freeport Zone as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) also earned a global distinction as Asia’s Leading Tourist Board in recognition of its “steadfast commitment to promoting a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism industry.”
In a statement Tuesday, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco dedicated the awards to tourism frontliners and stakeholders for their tireless efforts in supporting the industry, reiterating the DOT’s commitment to strengthening the country’s position as a “top destination of choice.”
“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,” Frasco said.
“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,” she added.
PH islands among worlds’ best
Meanwhile, luxury travel magazine Condé Nast Traveler (CNT) hailed Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao as among the world’s top islands in its “Top Islands: Readers’ Choice Awards 2025”.
On the Asia list, Boracay placed fourth with 90.54 points, Palawan at fifth with 90.23 points, and Siargai at seventh with 85.49 points. Phú Quốc in Vietnam topped the Asia list with 95.51 points.
Frasco welcomed the recognition, highlighting the beauty, resilience, and stewardship of Philippine island communities.
“To see Boracay, Palawan, and Siargao once again among Asia’s top islands reaffirms our commitment to preserving their natural wonders, advancing sustainable tourism, and ensuring that the prosperity these destinations bring reaches every Filipino,” she said in a separate statement.
“We invite travelers to help protect these treasures by practicing responsible tourism and supporting local communities. Together, we can ensure that the Philippines’ islands remain vibrant, sustainable, and welcoming for generations to come,” she added.
In 2024, the three abovementioned islands along with Cebu were included in CNT’s “Asia’s Top 10 Islands”—the only Southeast Asian nation with the most entries on the list.
-jpv
