The Department of Tourism (DOT) has welcomed the Philippines’ recognition as Asia’s Best Retirement Destination at the 11th TripZilla Excellence Awards, calling it a strong affirmation of the country’s growing stature as one of the world’s most attractive places to retire.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the accolade reinforces the Philippines’ position not just as a top travel destination, but as a place where people from around the world can build a meaningful second home. She emphasized that the recognition reflects the administration’s whole-of-government approach to strengthening retirement tourism as a key pillar of the country’s broader tourism portfolio.
“This award affirms what the global community increasingly sees—the Philippines is not only a beautiful place to visit, but a place to call home,” Frasco said. “Retirees choose the Philippines because the warmth of our country transcends our destinations and is deeply rooted in our culture of care, hospitality, and compassion. We take this honor as a call to intensify our efforts to provide world-class programs and services that uphold the dignity, comfort, and well-being of all who choose to spend the best years of their lives in our country.”
Under Frasco’s leadership, the DOT has been working closely with the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) to further enhance the country’s retirement offerings and ensure they remain competitive and appealing on the global stage. She noted that beyond its internationally celebrated natural beauty, the Philippines continues to stand out for its welcoming communities, English-speaking population, favorable climate, and access to internationally recognized healthcare facilities—key considerations for retirees seeking long-term comfort and peace of mind.
Earlier this year, the DOT and PRA held a series of discussions aimed at strengthening the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) program, one of the country’s flagship incentives designed to encourage foreign nationals and returning overseas Filipinos to retire in the Philippines. The initiative is seen as a crucial driver in attracting long-stay visitors and boosting tourism receipts while fostering deeper cultural and community ties.
The PRA, led by General Manager Roberto Zozobrado, has also rolled out its new “WE CARE” campaign, or We Create an Amazing Retirement Experience, signaling a more focused and strategic push to capture a larger share of the global retirement market.
“The Philippines offers something truly rare—retirement that feels like coming home,” Zozobrado said. “With our ‘WE CARE’ campaign, we want the world to know that retirees are not just welcomed here; they are valued, supported, and embraced as part of our communities. This award reflects our commitment to creating an environment where every retiree can thrive and enjoy an enriching, worry-free, and meaningful life in the Philippines.”
Zozobrado added that the country is currently home to more than 83,000 holders of the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa, a figure that continues to grow as global retirees look to the Philippines for a high quality of life, strong community ties, and a sense of belonging well beyond their working years.