Three tourists destinations from Central Luzon have been nominated in the prestigious 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA).
These bring the total nominations to 10, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced recently.
The new nominations include Aurora Province as Asia’s Leading Regional Nature Destination; City of San Fernando, Pampanga as Asia’s Leading Cultural City Destination; and Clark Freeport as Asia’s Leading Meetings and Conference Destination.
The DOT said this highlights the country’s growing roster of emerging destinations across Asia.
“We are deeply honored and grateful for the continued recognition of the Philippines by the World Travel Awards. These new nominations reaffirm the strength and diversity of our tourism offerings—from pristine nature destinations and cultural hubs to world-class meeting and conference venues. They also affirm the direction we have taken in revitalizing our tourism landscape in accordance with the guidance of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco.
“These recognitions underscore our commitment at the Department to advancing the directive of the President under the National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028—to elevate not only our iconic destinations but also emerging sites that showcase the richness of Filipino culture, the beauty of our natural landscapes, and our growing capacity to host world-class events,” she added.
The agency said Aurora Province, known as one of the surfing hub in the Philippines, is celebrated for its unspoiled coastlines and commitment to sustainable tourism.
San Fernando, Pampanga on the other hand is recognized as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines, the agency said. “It embodies vibrant local traditions and a strong cultural heritage, attracting visitors in search of meaningful, immersive experiences.”
Meanwhile, Clark Freeport is emerging as a premier hub for business, leisure, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism, DOT said.
With its world-class infrastructure and strategic location, the agency said Clark plays a central role in the Philippines’ MICE development strategy, alongside Manila, Cebu, and Davao.
