Manila : The Philippines clinched a total of eight recognitions at the 31st World Travel Awards (WTA). This is the first time the country hosted the travel and tourism awards gala ceremony through the combined efforts of the Department of Tourism and its attached agency, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.
During the Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony 2024 at the City of Dreams, the Philippines was honoured as Asia's Leading Dive Destination for the sixth consecutive year since 2019, as it bagged the titles of Asia's Leading Beach Destination and Asia's Leading Island Destination.
Some of the country's top destinations also took centre stage at this year's WTA, with the historic Walled City of Intramuros recognised as Asia's Leading Tourist Attraction, while Boracay nailed the title of Asia's Leading Luxury Island Destination, and Cebu as Asia's Leading Wedding Destination.
Meanwhile, a special award was given to DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco recognising the tourism chief for her leadership in tourism, citing her "outstanding contributions to tourism governance" and "vision, tireless dedication, and the tangible impacts of her initiatives have set a new benchmark in tourism leadership, not just in the Philippines but across Asia and Oceania."