Three destinations from Central Luzon have been newly nominated in the prestigious 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA), bringing the total nominations to 10, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced.
The new nominations include Aurora Province as Asia’s Leading Regional Nature Destination; San Fernando, Pampanga as Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination; and Clark Freeport Zone as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination—highlighting the country’s growing roster of emerging destinations across Asia.
“These new nominations reaffirm the strength and diversity of our tourism offerings—from pristine nature destinations and cultural hubs to world-class meeting and conference venues.”
“We are deeply honored and grateful for the continued recognition of the Philippines by the World Travel Awards. These new nominations reaffirm the strength and diversity of our tourism offerings—from pristine nature destinations and cultural hubs to world-class meeting and conference venues. They also affirm the direction we have taken in revitalizing our tourism landscape in accordance with the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.,” Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said.
“These recognitions underscore our commitment at the Department to advancing the directive of the President under the National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028—to elevate not only our iconic destinations but also emerging sites that showcase the richness of Filipino culture, the beauty of our natural landscapes, and our growing capacity to host world-class events,” Frasco added.
Aurora Province, widely known as one of the surfing hub in the Philippines, is celebrated for its unspoiled coastlines and commitment to sustainable tourism, thanks to its remote and pristine natural landscapes.
San Fernando, Pampanga—recognized as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines—embodies vibrant local traditions and a strong cultural heritage, attracting visitors in search of meaningful, immersive experiences.
Meanwhile, Clark Freeport Zone is emerging as a premier hub for business, leisure, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. With its world-class infrastructure and strategic location, Clark plays a central role in the Philippines’ MICE development strategy, alongside Manila, Cebu, and Davao.
In addition to the new nominations, the Philippines is also competing in the following categories:
• Asia’s Leading Beach Destination
• Asia’s Leading Dive Destination
• Asia’s Leading Island Destination
• Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction (Intramuros)
• Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination (Boracay)
• Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination (Cebu)
• Asia’s Leading Tourist Board (Department of Tourism)
Frasco also called on the public to support the country’s bid for recognition.
“I call on our fellow Filipinos and international friends to vote and help us secure these recognitions. These awards are a testament to our sustained efforts in tourism development rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, and excellence,” the tourism chief said.
Voting for the Philippines in the various categories of the 32nd edition of the World Travel Awards opened on April 1 and will run until August 31, 2025.
Voting for the Philippines in the various categories of the 32nd edition of the World Travel Awards opened on April 1 and will run until August 31, 2025.
Voters may support the country’s nominations by creating an account at www.worldtravelawards.com/vote and selecting the Philippines in the ten aforementioned categories.
The World Travel Awards is a globally recognized program that honors excellence across all major sectors of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industries.
Nominations are curated by industry professionals, while winners are chosen through a public voting process that includes both tourism experts and the general public.
Awards are given across regional categories—such as Asia, Europe, and the Americas—and culminate in a prestigious Grand Final that celebrates the world’s top destinations and organizations.
