The Philippines was named “Best Diving Destination” at the Diving Resort Travel Show (DRT) Beijing 2024, held from Aug. 1 to 4.
Led by the Philippine Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Beijing office, the country’s participation highlighted its thriving dive tourism sector.
Ambassador Jaime FlorCruz emphasized the industry’s significant contribution to the Philippine economy, doubling its revenue in 2023 to over P73 billion. This growth has solidified the Philippines’ position as a prime dive destination globally.
“With this, we are determined to project the Philippines as the ‘World’s Premier Dive Destination’,” said FlorCruz.
Twelve Filipino dive shops, resorts, and liveaboards showcased their offerings at the expo. Ernesto Teston, Assistant Tourism Attaché, presented the country’s premier dive spots, while Sheena Anjeli Botiwey, head of the Tourism Promotions Board’s North Asia Division facilitated partnerships between Filipino dive companies and Chinese clients.
Aside from the mentioned award, the Philippines also bagged the “Best Tourism Promotion Partnership” award at the expo.