PH set to defend tourism titles at WTA 2024

The Philippines is set to defend its status as a top global travel destination in the upcoming 2024 World Travel Awards (WTA), scheduled to take place on November 24 in Madeira, Portugal. This prestigious event marks the conclusion of the WTA’s annual search for the world’s best destinations and travel organizations, and the Philippines will be competing in several key global categories.

The country has been a dominant force in past WTA ceremonies, and this year, it aims to continue its winning streak in the world categories. Voting for the awards is open until October 20, with all ballots accessible on the official WTA website.

The Philippines will compete for the following titles:

1. World’s Leading Beach Destination
2. World’s Leading Dive Destination
3. World’s Leading Island Destination
4. World’s Leading City Destination: Manila
5. World’s Leading Wedding Destination: Cebu
6. World’s Leading Tourist Attraction: Intramuros
7. World’s Leading Marketing Campaign: "Love the Philippines" by the Department of Tourism
8. World’s Leading Tourist Board: Department of Tourism

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco expressed optimism and pride in the country's nominations, noting that these accolades underscore the Philippines’ diverse and unique travel experiences. “Each nomination is a celebration of our unique experiences, and we can’t wait to welcome travelers from around the world to discover more of what there is to love in our country’s diverse regions,” Frasco stated.

A Legacy of Excellence

At the recent WTA Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony, held for the first time in Manila, the Philippines secured several titles, including Asia’s Leading Beach Destination, Asia’s Leading Dive Destination, and Asia’s Leading Island Destination. Boracay and Intramuros also received regional honors, further solidifying the country’s stature as a premier travel destination.

Last year, the Philippines made waves on the global stage by winning World’s Leading Beach Destination, World’s Leading Dive Destination, and World’s Leading City Destination for Manila. Additionally, the country was honored with the inaugural Global Tourism Resilience Award at the 30th WTA.

Private Sector Players Nominated for Global Awards

Several Philippine businesses and resorts are also in the running for awards in various categories, showcasing the strength and diversity of the country’s travel and hospitality sectors. Among the nominations are:

• Cebu Pacific for World’s Leading Long-Haul Low-Cost Airline
• Savoy Hotel Manila for World’s Leading Airport Hotel
• Discovery Primea for World’s Leading Business Hotel
• City of Dreams Manila and Okada Manila for World’s Leading Casino Resort
• Admiral Hotel Manila - MGallery for World’s Leading Design Hotel
• Amanpulo and Atmosphere Resorts & Spa for World’s Leading Dive Resort
• City of Dreams Manila for World’s Leading Fully Integrated Resort
• Raffles Makati for World’s Leading Hotel Residences
• Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila and Ascott Makati for World’s Leading Serviced Apartments
• El Nido, Pangulasian Island for World’s Leading Themed Resort
• Amanpulo for World’s Leading Luxury Villa Beach Resort and World’s Leading Private Island Resort
• Banwa Private Island for World’s Leading Exclusive Private Island, World’s Leading Luxury Island Resort, and World’s Leading Luxury Private Island Resort

Global Recognition and the WTA

The World Travel Awards, founded in 1993, is regarded as one of the most prestigious programs in the travel and tourism industry, honoring excellence across all sectors of the global travel and hospitality industries. This year’s nominations underscore the Philippines’ commitment to offering world-class travel experiences and its rising influence in the global tourism arena.

As the country vies for these coveted awards, Filipinos are encouraged to cast their votes and help the Philippines retain its titles as one of the world's top travel destinations. “The Philippines' unique attributes are a constant source of pride to every Filipino. I encourage everyone –both here and abroad– to cast their votes and help us reveal to the world the many things there are to 'Love the Philippines,'” Frasco added.