PH named as ‘Asia’s Leading Dive Destination’ for the fifth time
The Philippines remains the leading dive destination in Asia for the fifth consecutive year.
World Travel Awards (WTA) gave the recognition on Wednesday, Sept. 6, at the preeminent WTA Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony 2023 which took place in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The award was personally received by Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano.
“The Philippines’ fifth consecutive win as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination further affirms the unparallel beauty and mega diversity of our country loved by divers and tourists all over the world,” DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said in a statement.
“This is a testament to the Philippines’ commitment to sustainable tourism development and our strengthened collaboration with tourism stakeholders. From our ridges to our reeds, you will never run out of reasons to Love the Philippines!” she continued.
The recognition was based on public votes and validation from the group’s panel of travel professionals.
According to the WTA website, the Philippines has consistently been recognized with the same recognition since 2019. It was also named as the leading beach destination both in Asia and globally since 2013.
In the DOT’s statement, they shared that the agency continues to provide programs that will boost the country’s dive tourism industry.
Among their projects is the installation of additional hyperbaric chambers to improve scuba diving safety standards in strategic dive locations by 2024, and the launching of the Philippine International Dive Expo (PHIDEX) which will hold its fourth edition in February 2024.
The country’s private tourism stakeholders also bagged awards. Discovery Shores Boracay was named as the Philippines’ Leading Beach Resort 2023, while Travelite Travel and Tours Co. was awarded the Philippines’ Leading Destination Management Company 2023.
Meanwhile, Seda Hotels was recognized as the Philippines’ Leading Hotel Group and Okada Manila as Asia’s Leading Casino Resort.
Since its creation in 1993, the WTA has been globally recognized as the "ultimate hallmark of excellence" in the tourism and hospitality industries. It covers country awards, regional awards, and world awards.