Philippines Crowned Asia's Best Dive Destination at 2024 Travel Awards

The Philippines has once again proven its status as a global diving hotspot by winning Best Dive Destination in Asia Pacific at the prestigious 2024 Travel Weekly Asia Readers' Choice Awards. The award, presented on October 15, highlights the country’s unmatched allure for both novice and experienced divers alike, solidifying it as a must-visit destination for underwater enthusiasts.

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Philippines crowned as Asia's best diving destinations for 2024

The ceremony, which took place earlier this month, recognized excellence across 36 categories, celebrating top hotels, resorts, airlines, and travel destinations. Alongside the Philippines, other major winners in the destination category included Japan, which took home Best Destination (Asia Pacific), and Sentosa, which was named Best Island Destination (Asia Pacific). The Macao Government Tourism Office was also recognized for Best Destination Marketing.

Receiving the award on behalf of the Philippines were Micaela Ochoa, Acting Head for ASEAN and the Pacific Division at the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, and Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez, Deputy Head of Mission and Consul General at the Embassy of the Philippines in Singapore.

In a statement, Marga Nograles, Chief Operating Officer of the TPB Philippines, expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasising the country's commitment to preserving and showcasing its natural wonders. "This accolade underscores our dedication to highlighting the exceptional beauty of our 7,641 islands, from our diverse diving destinations to our vibrant coral reefs that are home to thousands of marine species," said Nograles. She added that the Philippines offers an unparalleled diving experience, catering to both first-time and seasoned divers.

The award is not the first for the Philippines’ diving sector. The country has consistently been named World’s Leading Dive Destination and Asia’s Leading Dive Destination at the World Travel Awards since 2019. In addition, the Philippines was recognized earlier this year as Best Dive Destination at the Diving and Resort Travel Expo in Malaysia and Taiwan.

Also read: The Philippines Is Asia’s Leading Dive Destination, According to the World Travel Awards

Boasting some of the world’s most spectacular underwater landscapes, the Philippines is renowned for its coral reefs, thriving marine biodiversity, and varied dive sites across the archipelago. Whether it's the famed Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park or the vibrant waters of Anilao, the country continues to attract divers from around the globe, offering a mix of adventure and natural beauty.

With these accolades, it’s clear that the Philippines is not just a beautiful country on land, but also beneath the sea, continuing to make waves in the international dive community.

Featured image credit: Kzara Visual via Canva Pro