The Philippines has retained its title as Asia’s leading dive destination for the eighth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026 held at Crossroads Maldives.
Aside from this top award, the country also secured five other major regional tourism awards, including Asia’s Leading Beach Destination 2026 for the ninth time and Asia’s Leading Island Destination 2026 for the third consecutive year.
Though now highly commercialized, island attraction Boracay in Aklan kept its title as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination 2026 for the third straight year while the Department of Tourism (DoT) was named Asia’s Leading Tourist Board 2026 for the fourth time.
The City of San Fernando in Pampanga also made history by winning Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination 2026, marking the Philippines’ first victory in that category. The recognition highlights the city’s rich heritage, traditions, crafts, culinary offerings, and festivals, including its renowned Giant Lantern Festival.
Tourism secretary Dita Angara-Mathay proudly noted that “with the momentum from these latest) recognitions, (we) want to further establish diving as one of the Philippines’ key tourism products in 2027.”
Angara-Mathay cited that they are now focusing more on improving access and logistics to the country’s dive destinations by strengthening promotions that highlight the country’s marine and natural assets, while enhancing safety and security for both local and international travelers.
“We likewise continue investing in the training and education of tourism frontliners in dive and beach destinations with the goal of making diving and other water-based activities safer, more accessible and easier for travelers to experience through more efficient services and better-connected destinations,” she added. (Heidi Nicodemus)
