By Brian Campued
The Philippines has been recognized as the World’s Leading Dive Destination by the 2024 World Travel Awards, marking the country’s sixth win for the title, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced Friday.
During the gala ceremony held in Portugal on Nov. 24, the country also added to its laurels the World’s Leading City Destination (Manila) and the World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination (Boracay), among other awards.
The DOT also received the World’s Leading Tourist Board title for the first time, in recognition of the agency’s initiatives in promoting the country as a premier tourist destination by prioritizing sustainable tourism development projects under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco expressed elation over the global accolades, a testament to the Philippines’ various tourism products, such as its pristine beaches and diving spots.
“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,” Frasco said.
Under the National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028 of the Marcos Jr. Administration, the DOT continues to prioritize physical and digital infrastructure development in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Department of Transportation, and the Department of Information and Communications Technology.
The agency has also introduced projects to enrich travel experience, such as the Tourist Assistance Call Center, the upgraded Travel PH App, the Tourist Rest Areas in strategic locations nationwide, as well as visa system improvements that streamlined travel for international visitors.
The country now offers and promotes various tourism products, including gastronomy, health and wellness, halal and Muslim-friendly tourism, heritage and culture, and sports such as golf and surfing.
The DOT chief, likewise, thanked the Filipinos for helping position the country among the leading tourism destinations globally.
“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 said.
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