The Philippine tourism industry is flying high, with many of its destinations recognized with awards and citations.
The most recent is the results of a global e-commerce study that showed that the Philippines is among the top three best destinations for long-staying tourists. The study was conducted by Ubuy, one of the top international online shopping platforms. Evaluating over a hundred countries, the study found that the Philippines has an appeal for extended stays because of its affordability, cultural richness, safety, and travel convenience.
Early this month, the country bagged the Condé Nast Travelers 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards for having four destinations in the Top 10 islands in Asia. The lifestyle travel magazine named Boracay, Palawan, Cebu and the Visayan Islands, and Siargao as among Asia’s Top 10 islands. Boracay, with a score of 91.94, ranked third in the Asia list.
Globally, Boracay ranked ninth, while Palawan, Cebu and the Visayan Islands, and Siargao were sixth, eighth, and 10th places, respectively.
In September, the Philippines was recognized with eight awards at the 31st World Travel Awards (WTA) for 2024, as: Asia's Leading Beach Destination; Asia's Leading Dive Destination; Asia's Leading Island Destination; Asia's Leading Luxury Island Destination; Asia's Leading Marketing Campaign; Asia's Leading Tourist Attraction; Asia's Leading Wedding Destination; and Transformational Leader Award in Tourism Governance.
Last year, the Philippines bagged several awards at the 30th WTA, including the first Global Tourism Resilience award, which it shared with four other nations. The WTA was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence across all tourism industry sectors.
President Marcos credited the Filipinos for being the driving force behind the country's achievements in the tourism sector.
"Our endless coastlines, lush forests, white sand beaches, and rich biodiversity are a significant contribution to the breathtaking wonders of the world—but none more so than—the happy disposition, genuine kindness, and heartfelt warmth of the Filipino people," President Marcos wrote in his Facebook account.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco shared the same view: "The Filipino people, with their innate warmth, resilience, and passion, are at the heart of Philippine tourism. They are the embodiment of the essence of our culture, the genuine smiles, the unparalleled service, and the authentic experiences that leave a lasting impression upon every traveler."
Secretary Frasco said the DOT “is determined to expand tourism opportunities further by focusing on quality and sustainable tourism, ensuring that every visitor will leave with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our nation."
“We are honored by the global recognition and committed to preserving the natural and cultural treasures of our islands. Together, we can continue to enrich travelers and our communities, securing a sustainable future for Philippine tourism,” she said.
We can do more to push the tourism industry, which provides jobs to millions of Filipinos, by preserving our natural attractions. We can start with a community initiative to implement an anti-littering program along the coasts and in the forests. Many cleanup activities implemented by government agencies and volunteer groups have gathered sacks of beverage packs and food wrappers along the coasts, under the sea, in the rivers and forests. This has to stop.
Littering will not preserve our natural treasures. Our support for tourism – and respect for the environment – can start with anti-littering programs which can prepare another island for a new tourist destination title.