The Philippines has been awarded with the Best Emerging Destination Award by Grand Voyage, a Barcelona-based tour company, based on editorial decision and popular vote by over 10,000 of its clients.
Third Secretary and Vice Consul Ralf Roldan, who accepted the award on behalf of the Embassy, thanked the awarding body and stated, “We hope to continue the great stride on tourism promotion and economic boost in our country for the Spanish visitors who are arriving in the Philippines and who are surely welcome to visit and explore our more than 7,000 islands with majestic white beaches and warm people.” He also acknowledged the strides made by the London-based office of the Department of Tourism which oversees Spain, in promoting the Philippines to Spaniards. The Philippines bested Uzbekistan, Iran, Colombia, Malaysia and Myanmar in the said category. This is the first time that Grand Voyage launched the awards, which also includes Best Honeymoon Destination Award , Best Resort, and the Best Travel Destination Award.