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.”
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