Another First: Philippines to Host the World Travel Awards in September

The Philippines is solidifying its position as a premier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination by hosting, for the first time, the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony. The red-carpet event organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) will be held on 03 September 2024 at the City of Dreams Manila.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed her enthusiasm, “This not only marks a historical tourism milestone for our country under the Marcos administration, but also serves as a testament to the Philippines' growing prominence and readiness to host high-caliber international events. We are glad that esteemed global organizations, like the World Travel Awards, are recognizing our capacity to deliver world-class hospitality, superior event management, and unparalleled tourism experiences,” adding that the gala is also an avenue to network with various tourism stakeholders in the region.

Seven nominations for The Philippines

Established in 1993, the WTA acknowledges, rewards, and celebrates excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries. 

This year the Philippines is vying for seven awards: Asia’s Leading Beach Destination, Asia’s Leading Dive Destination, Asia’s Leading Island Destination, Intramuros as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction, Boracay as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, Cebu as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination, and the Department of Tourism as Asia’s Leading Tourist Board.

“This hosting opportunity comes at an auspicious time. Each of these nominations signifies recognition of the unique and diverse offerings of our beautiful archipelago—from our pristine beaches and world-renowned dive sites, to the vibrant culture and food and the innate hospitality and friendliness of the Filipino people," added the tourism chief.

Frasco attributes the nominations to the concerted effort of everyone involved. “This underscores the relentless efforts of our government and tourism stakeholders to foster an environment where tourism can thrive sustainably and inclusively.”

Vying for other awards

The WTA is not the sole organization acknowledging the merits of Philippine tourism.

The United Kingdom’s longest-running travel magazine, Wanderlust Travel Magazine, has the country competing in three categories in its 23rd Annual Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards. The Philippines is nominated for: Most Desirable Country (Rest of the World), Cebu - Most Desirable Region (Rest of the World), and Palawan - Most Desirable Island (Rest of the World). The awards also have subcategories under Most Desirable Country – Adventure, Nature and Wildlife, Culture and Heritage, Gastronomy, and Sustainability. 

The country is also nominated in three categories in the 2024 International Travel Awards – an annual program recognizing top-performing companies in the Tourism and Hospitality industry, including tourism boards and tourism attractions. The Philippines is gunning for Best Beach, Best Island Destination, and Best Wedding Destination.

The Asia Best of Best Awards also recognizes the DOT, nominating it for Best in Service - Customer Support, Best Marketing Campaign, and Frasco as Best Woman Leader. 

Frasco expressed her elation regarding the nominations, stating, “The Philippines’ beauty and the warmth of the Filipino people make tourism a natural endeavor. The challenge lies in envisioning a future that transcends mere visitor arrivals, focusing instead on tourism revenues that provide livelihood and employment, instituting the necessary infrastructure and improvements in connectivity, as well as valuing heritage preservation, community upliftment, and fostering a deep appreciation for our culture. These nominations inspire those of us in the tourism sector to persist in our mission.”