PH Named 2025 Destination of the Year by Routes Asia

The Philippines has been named Destination of the Year at the Routes Asia 2025 Awards, held in Perth, Australia.

As of February 28, 2025, a total of 46 new domestic and 47 new international routes have been launched, improving access to key destinations such as Siargao, Batanes, Panglao, and Coron, among others.

The prestigious Routes Asia Awards annually recognize excellence in air service development and marketing across the Asia-Pacific region.

Considered among the most valuable accolades in the route development community, the awards celebrate successful partnerships between airlines, airports, and tourism authorities.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed the honor, saying, “This award is a testament to the strength of our partnerships with stakeholders in the aviation and travel industries, our unwavering focus on connectivity, and our collective vision of positioning the Philippines as a premier global destination.”

She emphasized that the recognition reflects the tireless efforts of the DOT, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., to elevate Philippine tourism through enhanced air access, infrastructure development, and strategic alliances.

Frasco noted that the award underscores the Philippines' leadership in expanding air connectivity through strategic marketing, strong industry collaboration, and sustainable tourism initiatives.

She also credited the DOT’s flagship campaign, “Love the Philippines,” launched in 2023, for fueling international demand by showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity, vibrant cultural heritage, and emerging destinations.

These initiatives are part of the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028, which prioritizes enhanced connectivity to improve access and inclusivity in Philippine tourism.

As of February 28, 2025, a total of 46 new domestic and 47 new international routes have been launched, improving access to key destinations such as Siargao, Batanes, Panglao, and Coron, among others.

The Philippines also earned nominations in two major airport categories this year:

• Mactan-Cebu International Airport (5–20 Million Passengers category)

• Clark International Airport (Under 5 Million Passengers category)

Both airports have previously received recognition for their outstanding growth and route development strategies — Clark in 2024 and Mactan-Cebu in 2023.