MANILA — The Philippines marked its eight consecutive year as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026, held at CROSSROADS Maldives on Sunday (Sept. 27).
The country likewise secured five other major wins, including Asia’s Leading Beach Destination 2026 for the ninth time and Asia’s Leading Island Destination 2026 for the third consecutive year.
Boracay retained its title as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination 2026 for the third straight year, while the Department of Tourism (DOT) was named Asia’s Leading Tourist Board 2026 for the fourth time.
The City of San Fernando, Pampanga earned the title of Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination 2026, marking the Philippines’ first win in the said category. The recognition highlights the city’s rich heritage, traditions, crafts, culinary offerings, and festivals, including the Giant Lantern Festival.
“With the momentum from these recognitions, we want to further establish diving as one of the Philippines’ key tourism products in 2027. This means improving access and logistics to our dive destinations and strengthening promotions that showcase the exceptional marine and natural assets we have across the country. At the same time, we will continue working to enhance safety and security for both local and international travelers, while investing in the training and education of our tourism frontliners in our dive and beach destinations. Our goal is to make diving and other water-based activities safer, more accessible, and easier for travelers to experience, supported by more efficient services and better-connected destinations,” Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said.
Philippine tourism industry players also brought home nine Asia-level awards, led by the country’s flag carrier Philippine Airlines, named Asia’s Leading Cultural Airline. Savoy Hotel Manila was recognized as Asia’s Leading Airport Hotel, while Amanpulo and Discovery Primea were named Asia’s Leading Private Island Resort and Asia’s Leading Business Hotel, respectively. Other Philippine winners were Admiral Hotel Manila – MGallery, Asia’s Leading Design Hotel; Ascott Bonifacio Global City Manila, Asia’s Leading Serviced Apartments; City of Dreams Manila, Asia’s Leading Casino Resort; Fili Hotel Bridgetowne, Asia’s Leading New Luxury Hotel Development Project; and Okada Manila, Asia’s Leading Entertainment Resort.
Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards recognizes excellence across the global travel, tourism, and hospitality industries through regional and global awards. Regional winners advance to the WTA Grand Final, where they compete with winners from other regional heats for the World categories.
