Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 17) — The Philippines has been recognized as Asia’s Best Cruise Destination at the third annual World Cruise Awards in Dubai.
This is the first time the country bagged the reward – besting India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
“Our archipelago of 7,641 islands offers a wide array of cruise experiences, from exploring picturesque coastlines and coral reefs to immersing in local culture and traditions,” Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said in a statement.
Abu Dhabi, meanwhile, was named The World’s Best Cruise Destination, where the Philippines was also nominated.
The World Cruise Awards is a sister event of the World Tourism Awards, which “acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries” since 1993.
“This prestigious award is not only a testament to the Philippines’ allure as a cruise destination but also a validation of the collective dedication of the tourism industry and the Department of Tourism,” Frasco said.
Other winners were Mozambique for best cruise destination awards in Africa; Jamaica in the Caribbean; Madeira, Portugal in Europe, Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, Mexico in Latin America, Abu Dhabi in the Middle East, Alaska in North America, and Fiji in Oceania.
The Philippine Ports Authority earlier said an international cruise ship terminal is set to open in Siargao and Coron in Palawan this year. The agency is also looking into building more cruise ship terminals in the Bicol Region, Boracay, and Panglao in Bohol.
READ: Int’l cruise ship terminal to open in Siargao in October
