(File photo of Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco from the Department of Tourism)

QUEZON CITY, (PIA) – The Department of Tourism (DOT) announced on Friday, June 16, that the Philippines is once again nominated for the 2023 World Travel Awards (WTA) in six categories under Asia. 

These include the categories Asia's Leading Island Destination, Asia’s Leading Beach Destination, Asia’s Leading Dive Destination, Cebu as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination, Intramuros as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction, and the DOT as Asia’s Leading Tourist Board. 

From 2019 to 2022, the country was able to consecutively clinch the World’s Leading Dive Award apart from currently holding the World’s Leading Beach Destination title. 

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco meanwhile recognized the importance of securing such nominations in affirming the country’s thriving position in the international tourism stage. 

The DOT chief also enjoins all Filipinos including the array of tourists and travelers who were able to visit the Philippines and witness its rich tourism product offerings to vote for the country. 

“We are grateful to the World Travel Awards for reaffirming the global importance of the Philippines in tourism and travel. This is evinced in our stunning landscapes, award-winning beaches, mega biodiverse dive destinations, diverse culture, rich heritage, and hospitality excellence," said Tourism Secretary Frasco. 

"The Philippines’ nominations in the World Travel Awards Asia is a testament to the hard work of the men and women of the tourism industry in the public and private sector across our many communities in the country, and an affirmation of the Marcos administration’s thrust towards tourism transformation. I encourage our fellow Filipinos and friends from all over the world to vote for the Philippines!”, she added.  

According to the tourism department, the WTA has been in the forefront of giving recognition to the tourism industry of the Philippines since the country first received its nomination in 2013, excelling beyond tourism giants in the Caribbean, the Americas, and Europe. 

WTA is an international award-giving body that celebrates and acknowledges the excellence of countries in the field of travel, tourism, and hospitality. 

Votes can be casted until July 23, 2023 through https://www.worldtravelawards.com/vote. (DOT/PIA-NCR)