PH again named top dive destination

The Philippines is the world’s leading dive destination by the 2024 World Travel Awards (WTA), the sixth time the country earned the title, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced on Thursday.

Along with the country’s unparalleled dive destinations, the WTA also recognized Boracay as world’s leading luxury island destination, Manila as world’s leading city destination, and Amanpulo as world’s leading dive resort.

During the Philippine Dive Experience launch in Anilao on Thursday, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the DOT would continue promoting sustainable dive tourism in the country.

READ: DOT launches Philippine Dive Experience to boost eco-tourism

The WTA awarding ceremony took place in the Atlantic islands of Madeira on Nov. 24, marking the climax of WTA’s search for the world’s leading destinations and travel organizations this year.

In addition, the WTA acknowledged the DOT as the world’s leading tourist board and the City of Dreams Manila as the world’s leading casino resort.

In 2023, the country also bagged the award along with the status as world’s leading beach destination and world’s leading city destination for Manila.

Diving is among the Philippines’ top tourism products, which has been raking in billions of pesos in revenue for the tourism industry since last year.

In 2023, Frasco said it generated P73 billion in revenue “showcasing its critical role in driving sustainable economic growth and enhancing the livelihood of countless Filipinos.” —PNA