The Philippines was honored with three top distinctions at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Grand Final Gala Ceremony held in Bahrain on Dec. 6, 2025, securing a seventh consecutive win for World’s Leading Dive Destination 2025.
Manila achieved its third consecutive victory, being named the World’s Leading City Destination 2025. Meanwhile, Boracay earned back-to-back recognition as the World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination 2025.
These global accolades highlight the diverse strength of the Philippine tourism sector, spanning its marine environment, cultural hubs and high-end island experiences.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed the awards, saying the wins reflect both strong public support and global industry recognition.
“We extend our warmest gratitude to the travelers and tourism professionals who voted for the Philippines,” Frasco said, emphasizing that the distinctions raise the country’s global visibility and support the millions of Filipinos working in the industry.
The Philippines won World’s Leading Dive Destination 2025 over 12 other global contenders, including the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador, the Great Barrier Reef of Australia and the Cayman Islands.
The title reinforces the country’s status as a marine biodiversity hub, supported by local dive operators and conservation partners.
Manila’s third-straight victory as World’s Leading City Destination 2025 saw it surpass established international cities such as London, United Kingdom; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; and New York City, USA.
The award recognizes the capital city’s strengthened cultural landscape, culinary offerings, heritage districts, and improved readiness for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE).
Boracay successfully defended its title as World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination 2025, prevailing against destinations like Mustique in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The win spotlights Boracay’s refined visitor experience, sustainability practices and its strong mix of high-end accommodations and services.
Earlier in October, the Philippines also secured multiple honors at the 2025 World Travel Awards Asia and Oceania Gala in Hong Kong, including Asia’s Leading Dive Destination and Asia’s Leading Tourist Board for the DOT.
Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards are regarded as a leading benchmark of excellence in global tourism.
