MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Philippines has once again made waves on the global tourism stage, clinching the prestigious Destination of the Year Award at the Routes Asia 2025 Awards held in Perth, Australia. Announced by Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco on March 31, the recognition solidifies the country’s position as a premier hub for connectivity and tourism in the Asia-Pacific region.
“These awards are a testament to the strength of our partnerships with different stakeholders in the aviation and travel industry, our unwavering focus on connectivity, and our collective vision of positioning the Philippines as a premier global destination,” said Secretary Frasco. “This recognition reflects the tireless work of the Department of Tourism under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., to elevate Philippine tourism through enhanced air access, infrastructure development, and strategic alliances.”
The Routes Asia Awards celebrate the best in air service development and marketing, honoring successful collaborations between airlines, airports, and tourism authorities. As the most anticipated awards within the route development community, the accolade underscores the Philippines’ forward-thinking approach to tourism and air connectivity.
Further boosting the country’s aviation prowess, Cebu Pacific was named Best Airline for the second consecutive year. The low cost carrier’s aggressive route expansion, including 31 new routes in 2024 and record-breaking orders of 152 Airbus jets, showcases its commitment to connecting the Philippines to the world.
The Philippines also garnered nods for Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Clark International Airport in the categories of 5–20 Million Passengers and Under 5 Million Passengers, respectively. The recognition highlights both airports’ dedication to route development and passenger experience.
Secretary Frasco expressed her gratitude to partner airlines and the broader aviation ecosystem for their continued support. “We express our deep appreciation to our partner airlines and the entire aviation sector for their firm commitment to improving connectivity and expanding access to and within our archipelagic nation,” Secretary Frasco remarked. “Air connectivity is vital to the growth of Philippine tourism. These advancements not only unlock more destinations across the country, but also provide greater ease and convenience for travelers—offering even more reasons for visitors and tourists to Love the Philippines.”
The Routes Asia2025 Philippine delegation included representatives from the DOT, Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB), Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), Aboitiz GMR Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (AGMCAC), Luzon International Premiere Airport Development Corporation (LIPAD), Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC), Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), and Clark Development Corporation (CDC).
The Destination of the Year Award was personally received by DOT Assistant Secretary Judilyn Quiachon, Director Warner Andrada, Tourism Attaché for Australia and New Zealand Purificacion Suanding-Molintas, along with the rest of the DOT delegation during the awarding ceremonies in Perth.
