Manila Times: DOT eyes 6 nominations in World Travel Awards

TOURISM Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has announced that the Philippines is vying for six nominations in the coveted World Travel Awards (WTA).

The Philippines is eyeing the top plum as Asia's Leading Island Destination, Asia's Leading Beach Destination, Asia's Leading Dive Destination, Intramuros as Asia's Leading Tourist Attraction, Cebu as Asia's Leading Wedding Destination, and the Department of Tourism as Asia's Leading Tourist Board.

Frasco called on Filipinos as well as foreigners who have visited the country or are planning to visit to vote for the Philippines in the said categories.

"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," she said on Friday.

"The Philippines' nominations in the World Travel Awards Asia are testament to the hard work of the men and women of the tourism industry in the public and private sectors across our many communities in the country and an affirmation of the Marcos administration's thrust toward tourism transformation," she added.

The WTA has previously recognized the Philippines' destinations since its first nomination in 2013, defeating tourism titans of the Caribbean, the Americas and Europe.

"For four consecutive years, the Philippines bagged the World's Leading Dive Destination and is also currently the World's Leading Beach Destination," Frasco said.

"I encourage our fellow Filipinos and friends from all over the world to vote for the Philippines!" she added.

The public may cast their votes until July 23 in an online polling at https://www.worldtravelawards.com/vote.