Philippine bags Tourism Destination of the Year award

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines received the Tourism Destination of the Year award from the Russian-Asian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RAUIE).

Philippine Ambassador to Moscow Igor Bailen received the award during the sixth Golden Dragon Awards on Dec. 15 hosted by RAUIE, a prominent industry union in Russia.

“We have more than 7,000 islands that are sunny and warm almost all year round. We have an open and transparent business environment that has recently included groundbreaking legislation that is friendly to foreign partners. I would like to highlight our economic reforms in the key public services sector that have made 100 percent foreign ownership possible,” Bailen said.

At the ceremony, RAUIE president and chairman Vitaly Mankevich commended the Philippines for its dedicated work, innovation and unwavering commitment to establishing direct flights between Moscow and Manila.

Mankevich expressed optimism about the impact of direct flights on the success of Philippine tourism and highlighted RAUIE’s support in creating favorable conditions for an increased influx of Russian tourists.

He emphasized that the award not only signifies a source of pride for the Philippine tourism sector but also contributes to enhancing the country’s global reputation as a welcoming and attractive destination.