1 month ago
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THE Department of Tourism (DOT) marks another milestone as Cebu Island ranked third in the Area Category of the renowned NEWT Awards 2024, illustrating the contribution of the "Love the Philippines" campaign to elevate the country's standing in the Japanese market.
The NEWT Awards, presented by the global travel booking app NEWT, recognize the world's most popular locations, hotels and airlines based on traveler preferences.
Rankings are based on the total value of trip bookings from Dec. 1, 2023 to Nov. 30, 2024.
South Korea and Taiwan secured first and second places, respectively.
Cebu's top-three ranking reflects its rising popularity with Japanese and foreign tourists, securing its status as a major island destination.
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"The DOT proudly acknowledges the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders that have contributed to Cebu's remarkable achievement, securing third place in the Area Category of the distinguished NEWT Awards 2024," Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said on Tuesday.
"This accolade not only underscores Cebu's allure as a prime travel destination but also reflects the growing success of the Love the Philippines campaign in enhancing our country's visibility and appeal to the Japanese market," she added.
Cebu's achievement at the NEWT Awards coincides with an increase in Japanese travel interest in the Philippines.
According to Rakuten Travel data, accommodation bookings in the country climbed by 1.82 times compared to the previous year during the 2023-2024 holiday season, ranking second on the Japanese hotel booking platform.
Reiwa Travel Inc., a licensed first-class travel agency authorized by the Japanese government, operates NEWT.
