MANILA – The Philippines claimed victory in two key categories at the esteemed Routes Asia Awards 2025 held in Perth, Australia on March 26.

In a news release Monday, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said the Philippines was declared Destination of the Year while Cebu Pacific secured the Best Airline title for the second consecutive year.

It noted that such recognition resulted from its aggressive effort on the expansion of domestic and international routes.

As of Feb. 28, 46 new domestic and 47 international routes are in operation, improving access to destinations such as Siargao, Batanes, Panglao, and Coron, among others.

"The Department of Tourism remains steadfast in working closely with our stakeholders to further strengthen air connectivity, open more routes, and enhance our gateways,” DOT Secretary Christina Frasco said.

Other nominees for the Destination of the Year award were the Guam Visitors Bureau, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the South Australia Tourism Commission, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

Frasco said the award celebrates the collective commitment of the DOT team and its supportive partners in the government and private sectors.

"To be able to compete with esteemed tourism authorities from Guam, Japan, South Australia, and Thailand is an achievement in itself—one that reflects the growing strength and recognition of the Philippines as a tourism powerhouse on the world stage," she added.

Meanwhile, Cathay Pacific, VietJet Air, and Vietnam Airlines and Cebu Pacific competed for the Best Airline honor.

Cebu Pacific has launched 31 new routes, resuming hub operations in Davao and Iloilo, and introducing flights to key destinations such as Kaohsiung, Chiang Mai, and Sapporo.

The airline formalized the largest aircraft order in Philippine aviation history through a partnership with Airbus and Pratt & Whitney which was announced during the ‘Future Skies for Every Juan’ Gala in October 2024.

Frasco said the recognition underscores the vital role of local carriers like Cebu Pacific as key partners of the DOT in driving tourism growth and enhancing connectivity.

"I extend my heartfelt thanks to Cebu Pacific and all our partner airlines for their tireless efforts in enhancing connectivity and making travel more accessible to tourists," she said.

Clark International Airport (CRK) and Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) were also among the nominees at the Routes Asia Awards 2025.

CRK was shortlisted in the Under 5 Million Passengers category, having won the award in 2024, while MCIA competed in the 5–20 Million Passengers category, which it previously claimed in 2023. (PNA)