The Philippine strategy to spotlight emerging tourist destinations is paying off, as three Central Luzon sites earned nominations at the prestigious World Travel Awards, Malacanang announced on Monday.
In a Malacañang press briefing on Monday, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the nominations are a testament to the success of the National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028.
“Ang mga nominasyong ito ay patunay na epektibo ang direksyon ng National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028, na layuning paunlarin hindi lamang ang mga kilalang destinasyon, kundi pati na rin ang mga bagong lugar na sumasalamin sa tunay na ganda ng Pilipinas,” Castro said.
The three latest nominations — Aurora Province, the City of San Fernando in Pampanga, and the Clark Freeport Zone — bring the Philippines’ total number of World Travel Awards (WTA) citations to 10.
Castro said the country’s growing list of international recognitions reflects its strengthened tourism initiatives.
“Ang mga parangal na ito ay patunay ng lakas at lawak ng ating turismo, mula sa kalikasan, kultura, hanggang world-class events,” Castro said.
Castro recognized the success of these emerging destinations in showcasing Philippine culture, natural beauty, and world-class event management.
Aurora Province, known for its pristine beaches and eco-tourism sites, is nominated as Asia’s Leading Regional Nature Destination.
San Fernando, Pampanga—the Christmas Capital of the Philippines—is in the running for Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination.
On the other hand, the Clark Freeport Zone, a fast-rising business hub in Central Luzon, has been nominated as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination.
Established in 1993, the WTA aims to acknowledge, reward, and celebrate excellence in all key travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors.
The WTA runs a comprehensive program across various awards developed to recognize the industry’s most vital sectors and product offerings.
“Tunay ngang sa bawat baybayin, pista, at pagpupulong, ang ganda ng Pilipinas ay kinikilala sa buong mundo,” Castro said. | PND
