The PTA is an annual recognition program that honors individuals, organizations, and local government units that have made significant contributions to the development and promotion of tourism in the Philippines. The awards are given in various categories, including Best Tourism Destination, Best Tourism Product, Best Tourism Service, and Best Tourism Marketing Campaign.
Established in 1993, it recognized the outstanding achievements of individuals and organizations in the tourism industry. The awards, presented during the annual Philippine Tourism Forum.
The PTA is a prestigious recognition that is highly valued by the tourism industry. The awards also serve as an incentive for individuals and organizations to continue to excel in their efforts to promote tourism.
Frasco emphasized the multi-faceted goals of the PTA. It aims to:
Celebrate excellence: Recognize institutions, individuals, and enterprises that have demonstrably elevated the quality of tourism services across the country, contributing significantly to the economic backbone of the Philippines.
Foster healthy competition: By acknowledging exceptional efforts, the PTA encourages industry players to continuously strive for improvement, ultimately benefiting Filipino tourism as a whole.
Strengthen partnerships: The program underscores the crucial role of stakeholders, from private sectors and local governments to media and communities, in building a robust and inclusive tourism industry.
Recognize achievements: Both past and present, the PTA honors the pioneers and trailblazers who have shaped Philippine tourism, while simultaneously celebrating the ongoing efforts of individuals and organizations driving its growth.
Promote inclusivity: Moving beyond Manila-centric recognition, the PTA extends its reach to regional and community-based initiatives, ensuring opportunities for lesser-known destinations and practices to shine.
The revived PTA features two distinct categories:
1. Philippine Tourism Pillar Awards: A one-time recognition program celebrating the DOT's 50th anniversary, honoring individuals, enterprises, destinations, and organizations who laid the foundation for Philippine tourism's success.
2. Philippine Tourism Industry Awards: A periodic national program recognizing outstanding efforts in developing and promoting Philippine tourism across various sectors, such as institutional, individual, tourism product, media, and special awards.
Secretary Frasco emphasized the importance of sustainability practices and inclusivity within the industry. The PTA not only recognizes established players but also aims to empower emerging destinations and community-based initiatives, ensuring a wider distribution of benefits and opportunities.
To know more about the Philippine Tourism Awards, or any programs of the tourism department, please visit DOT’s official website: https://beta.tourism.gov.ph, or their official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DepartmentOfTourism. (PIA-NCR)
