Cebu Secures 3rd Spot in Global Travel Rankings

Cebu has once again proven its global appeal by securing third place in the Area Category of the highly acclaimed NEWT Awards 2024. The Department of Tourism (DOT) proudly announced this achievement on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, highlighting Cebu’s growing reputation as a top travel destination.

Seoul, South Korea, has claimed the top spot in the latest global travel rankings, followed closely by Taipei, Taiwan, and Cebu, Philippines, which secured third place. Other destinations that made it to the prestigious list include Honolulu (Hawaii), Guam, Bangkok (Thailand), Hong Kong, Bali (Indonesia), Singapore, and Busan (South Korea).

In addition to Cebu’s impressive ranking, the NEWT travel awards honored some of the region’s best hospitality and travel services. Among the awardees were Shangri-La Mactan Resort and Spa, JPark Island Resort and Water Park, and Cebu Pacific, showcasing their excellence in providing exceptional guest experiences.

Cebu’s recent recognition at the NEWT Awards comes at a time when the Philippines is experiencing a surge in Japanese tourist interest. This growing appeal is reflected in data from Rakuten Travel, which reports a 1.82x increase in accommodation bookings in the country during the 2023-2024 holiday season compared to the previous year. This surge marks the second-highest growth rate recorded on the Japanese hotel booking platform.

The renewed air connectivity comes as Philippine Airlines (PAL) officially resumed its Cebu-Osaka direct flight in December 2024. This move is expected to enhance accessibility for Japanese travelers, making it easier for them to explore Cebu’s stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and top-tier resorts. destination due to its pristine beaches, rich cultural heritage, and world-class hospitality.