Home » Cambodia Travel News » Now Philippines Joins Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia and More Receive Prestigious Recognition at ASEANTA 2026 Tourism Awards in Cebu, Highlighting Innovation, Eco-Tourism, and Cultural Heritage Published on
January 30, 2026The 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence unfolded in Cebu, Philippines, during the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026 and TRAVEX, recognising outstanding achievements within Southeast Asia’s tourism sector. The prestigious event celebrated the visionary organisations and individuals shaping the region’s tourism industry through innovation, sustainability, and cultural preservation, marking a significant milestone for ASEAN’s travel and tourism development.Cebu as the Heart of ASEAN’s Tourism CelebrationsAs one of Southeast Asia’s most influential annual gatherings, the ASEANTA Tourism Awards serve as a vital platform for recognising tourism excellence across ASEAN. The Philippines, as the host of this year’s awards, showcased Cebu’s vital role in the region’s tourism. Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and flourishing travel infrastructure, Cebu epitomised ASEAN’s ability to blend modern tourism offerings with its deep-rooted cultural identity.Advertisement The awards are organised by the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA), a body dedicated to promoting sustainable and responsible tourism across the region. ASEANTA’s awards have become synonymous with raising the standards of tourism by recognising best practices that enhance the region’s competitiveness on the global stage.ASEAN’s Unified Vision of Tourism ExcellenceWith a theme focused on “Honoring ASEAN’s Best in Tourism Excellence: Your Story, ASEAN’s Stage,” the ceremony underscored the uniqueness of each ASEAN destination. These destinations tell their own stories, showcasing their cultural richness and offering unforgettable experiences to travellers. The opening remarks highlighted how the collaboration across the ASEAN community strengthens the region’s collective impact on the global tourism market.AdvertisementBy coming together under the umbrella of ASEANTA, ASEAN nations demonstrate the importance of unity and collaboration to drive tourism growth, sharing strategies and insights that ultimately benefit all member countries. The theme of the evening was a reminder that each destination has its own distinctive narrative, which contributes to the growing appeal of ASEAN as a dynamic and unified tourism powerhouse.Honouring ASEAN’s Tourism InnovatorsThe 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards celebrated an eclectic range of award winners, each representing a facet of ASEAN’s diverse tourism sector. From eco-tourism ventures to transformative marketing campaigns, these winners have set the bar for the future of travel and tourism in Southeast Asia. The award categories celebrated innovations in sustainability, destination promotion, and excellence in hospitality services.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe winners of the 2026 ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence include:Best ASEAN Convention Centre: SMX Convention Centre, PhilippinesBest AS …
