The Philippines earned major recognition at the prestigious Routes Asia Awards 2025 in Perth, Australia, taking home two major accolades that highlight its strides in tourism development and accessibility. Represented by the Department of Tourism (DOT), the country was named Destination of the Year, while Cebu Pacific claimed the Best Airline award for the second year in a row.
The awards were announced during the Routes Asia 2025 Networking Evening held on March 26, marking a significant milestone in the Philippines’ ongoing tourism expansion efforts. These achievements reflect the impact of the DOT’s initiatives, notably the “Love the Philippines” campaign and the aggressive expansion of both domestic and international air routes.
As of February 28, 2025, the country has launched 46 new domestic and 47 new international routes, enhancing connectivity to destinations like Siargao, Batanes, Panglao, and Coron.
“The Department of Tourism remains steadfast in working closely with our stakeholders to further strengthen air connectivity, open more routes, and enhance our gateways,” said DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “With continued support from our government and private partners, the Philippines is set to reach even greater heights as a convenient and attractive destination for global travelers.”
The Philippines stood out among other finalists for Destination of the Year, including Guam, Japan, South Australia, and Thailand.
“This award validates the hard work of the DOT under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.,” added Secretary Frasco. “It also celebrates the commitment of our entire tourism community. To be recognized alongside such esteemed tourism bodies is a proud moment for us all.”
In the Best Airline category, Cebu Pacific stood alongside nominees Cathay Pacific, VietJet Air, and Vietnam Airlines. The budget airline continues to play a pivotal role in increasing accessibility, launching 31 new routes, resuming operations in hubs like Davao and Iloilo, and expanding services to international destinations such as Kaohsiung, Chiang Mai, and Sapporo.
Cebu Pacific also made headlines by finalizing the largest aircraft order in Philippine aviation history, through a partnership with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney—a landmark deal unveiled during the “Future Skies for Every Juan” Gala in October 2024. The event was attended by First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, and Secretary Frasco.
“Our gratitude goes to Cebu Pacific and all partner airlines for their unwavering commitment to enhancing connectivity,” Secretary Frasco said. “Your continued support helps unlock our archipelago’s full potential and makes every journey more accessible and enjoyable.”
In addition to the top honors, Clark International Airport (CRK) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) were also finalists. Clark was shortlisted in the Under 5 Million Passengers category after its 2024 win, while Mactan-Cebu competed in the 5–20 Million Passengers category, which it won in 2023.
The Philippine delegation to Routes Asia 2025 included officials from the DOT, Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), Aboitiz InfraCapital Airport Corporation (ACAC), Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corporation (LIPAD), Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC), Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and Clark Development Corporation (CDC).
The awards were received by DOT Assistant Secretary Judilyn Quiachon, Director Warner Andrada, and Tourism Attaché for Australia and New Zealand Purificacion Suanding-Molintas.