Published on
October 20, 2025
The Philippines’ tourism excellence has been globally recognized with nine prestigious nominations at the 32nd World Travel Awards, highlighting the country’s unmatched natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and world-class destinations. This recognition not only underscores the Philippines’ continued growth as a top global tourism destination but also showcases its diverse offerings, from pristine beaches and world-renowned dive spots to vibrant cities and historical landmarks. The nominations reflect the country’s commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences and its rising stature in the global tourism industry.
The Philippines has firmly positioned itself as a leading global tourism destination, earning nine prestigious nominations at the 32nd World Travel Awards (WTA). This recognition builds upon the country’s previous successes at the regional level and further establishes its reputation in the international tourism arena. The WTA nominations are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and thriving tourism infrastructure, which continue to captivate travelers from around the world.
The Philippines’ nine nominations at the 32nd WTA encompass various categories, including country awards, destination-specific accolades, and recognition for the Department of Tourism (DOT). This wide-ranging representation highlights the Philippines’ diverse offerings, from pristine beaches and world-class dive spots to vibrant cities and historical landmarks. With these nominations, the country is poised to solidify its standing among the top global destinations.
Among the country-level categories, the Philippines is vying for several coveted titles, each representing a unique aspect of its tourism appeal. One of the most significant nominations is for World’s Leading Dive Destination 2025. The Philippines has long been recognized for its exceptional dive sites, with places like Palawan, Cebu, and Bohol offering some of the world’s most biodiverse underwater ecosystems. This nomination marks the Philippines’ quest for its seventh win in this category, which underscores the country’s commitment to marine conservation and its position as a top choice for diving enthusiasts.
Another prominent nomination is for World’s Leading Beach Destination 2025. The Philippines has earned this title in the past, holding it in both 2022 and 2023. The country is known for its stunning beaches, which range from the powdery white sands of Boracay to the serene and untouched shores of Siargao and Palawan. The Philippines’ beach destinations continue to draw visitors from all over the globe, with their natural beauty and opportunities for relaxation, water sports, and luxury experiences.
In addition to its diving and beach destinations, the Philippines is also nominated for World’s Leading Island Destination 2025. With over 7,000 islands to explore, the country offers travelers a wealth of unique experiences. From the iconic beaches of Boracay to the rugged landscapes of Mindanao, the Philippines’ islands are a treasure trove of natural wonders, adventure, and cultural experiences.
On the city level, Manila, the country’s bustling capital, is nominated for World’s Leading City Destination 2025. Despite facing challenges such as rapid urbanization, Manila remains a vibrant city with a mix of historical, cultural, and modern attractions. Visitors to Manila can explore its colonial past at Intramuros, enjoy shopping and dining in Makati, and experience the local culture through food, art, and entertainment.
Speaking of Intramuros, the historic walled city is once again a finalist for World’s Leading Tourist Attraction 2025. Intramuros is a symbol of the Philippines’ colonial history and its journey towards independence. Its cobblestone streets, centuries-old churches, and Spanish-era buildings offer a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
The Philippines also boasts several iconic tourist spots that continue to capture the imagination of travelers. Boracay, for instance, is nominated for World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination 2025. Known for its upscale resorts, fine dining, and vibrant nightlife, Boracay has become a symbol of luxury and relaxation. Meanwhile, Cebu is nominated for World’s Leading Wedding Destination 2025, with its stunning venues, romantic beaches, and rich cultural traditions, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.
Additionally, the Clark Freeport Zone, recognized for its rapid development and growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) infrastructure, is nominated for World’s Leading Meeting & Conference Destination 2025. With its state-of-the-art facilities, modern amenities, and proximity to Manila, Clark is becoming a hub for business tourism, attracting international conferences, expos, and events.
The Department of Tourism itself is also nominated for World’s Leading Tourist Board 2025. This nomination reflects the efforts of the Philippine government to promote the country as a top tourist destination while ensuring sustainable tourism practices and enhancing the visitor experience. The DOT has been instrumental in driving tourism growth through various initiatives, including digital marketing campaigns, partnerships with international travel agencies, and efforts to improve the country’s infrastructure.
In addition to these national and destination-specific nominations, the Philippines also boasts the inclusion of 16 private tourism establishments across various WTA categories. These establishments represent the country’s thriving hospitality sector, which continues to grow in both quantity and quality. From luxury resorts and boutique hotels to adventure travel companies and eco-tourism operators, these businesses showcase the Philippines’ diverse tourism offerings and their commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to visitors.
The WTA nominations are a testament to the Philippines’ growing stature in the global tourism industry. As the country continues to recover from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, these nominations highlight its resilience and ongoing efforts to strengthen its position as a premier travel destination. The country’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and thriving tourism infrastructure make it an ideal choice for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
The Philippines’ tourism excellence shines through with nine nominations at the 32nd World Travel Awards, recognizing its unparalleled natural beauty, vibrant culture, and world-class destinations that continue to captivate global travelers.
As the Philippines prepares for the 32nd World Travel Awards ceremony, the nominations serve as a reminder of the country’s potential to continue attracting global travelers and setting new standards in the tourism industry. With its diverse range of destinations, world-class services, and commitment to sustainable tourism, the Philippines is well on its way to becoming a leading force in the global tourism market.
