The Philippines is hosting the prestigious 2024 World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony on Sept. 3, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Wednesday.
In a statement, the agency said holding the event solidifies the country’s position as a “premier Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE)” destination and marks its growing popularity as a location for high-level events.
“This not only marks a historical tourism milestone for our country under the Marcos administration but also serves as a testament to the Philippines’ growing prominence and readiness to host high-caliber international events,” Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said.
“We are glad that esteemed global organizations, like the World Travel Awards, are recognizing our capacity to deliver world-class hospitality, superior event management, and unparalleled tourism experiences,” she added, seeing the gala as an avenue to network with various tourism stakeholders in the region.
This is the first time that the WTA is holding its awards night in the Philippines, which itself is vying for seven recognitions:
- Asia’s Leading Beach Destination
- Asia’s Leading Dive Destination
- Asia’s Leading Island Destination
- Intramuros as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction
- Boracay as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination
- Cebu as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination
- Department of Tourism as Asia’s Leading Tourist Board
Frasco said the nominations underscore “the relentless efforts of our government and tourism stakeholders to foster an environment where tourism can thrive sustainably and inclusively.”
“This hosting opportunity comes at an auspicious time. Each of these nominations signifies recognition of the unique and diverse offerings of our beautiful archipelago—from our pristine beaches and world-renowned dive sites to the vibrant culture and food and the innate hospitality and friendliness of the Filipino people,” she said.
The red carpet event organized by the DOT will be held at the City of Dreams Manila.
Apart from the WTA, the country is also raking in nominations for various travel awards, including the Wanderlust Travel Magazine’s 23rd Annual Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards.
The Philippines was nominated for Most Desirable Country (Rest of the World), Cebu – Most Desirable Region (Rest of the World), and Palawan – Most Desirable Island (Rest of the World).
The country is also shooting for the Best Beach, Best Island Destination, and Best Wedding Destination awards at the 2024 International Travel Awards – an annual program recognizing top-performing companies in the Tourism and Hospitality industry, including tourism boards and tourism attractions.
The DOT was also nominated at the Asia Best of Best Awards for Best in Service – Customer Support, Best Marketing Campaign, and Best Woman Leader (Frasco).
“These nominations inspire those of us in the tourism sector to persist in our mission,” she added. (PNA)
