PHL wins best retirement spot, other tourism awards by TripZilla

The Philippines was recognized as Asia’s Best Retirement Destination at the recent 11^thTripZilla Excellence Awards, buttressing the Department of Tourism’s goal of positioning the country as a top retirement location in the world.

TripZilla also recognized the Philippines as the Best Dive Destination and Destination of the Year. TripZilla is a leading Southeast Asian online travel platform.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the awards support the whole-of-government approach in boosting the country’s tourism industry.

Frasco said, “Retirees choose the Philippines because the warmth of our country goes beyond our destinations and is deeply rooted in our culture of care, hospitality and compassion.”

“We take this recognition as a call to further strengthen world-class programs and services that uphold the dignity, comfort and well-being of those who choose to spend the best years of their lives here,” she said.

The DOT said it is working closely with the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) to increase the global appeal of the country’s retirement offerings.

Earlier this year, the two agencies agreed to improve the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) program, a flagship incentive for foreign nationals and returning overseas Filipinos.

PRA general manager Roberto Zozobrado is spearheading the “We Create an Amazing Retirement Experience (WE CARE)” campaign, aimed at increasing the Philippines’ share of the global retirement market.

Zozobrado said, “Through the ‘WE CARE’ campaign, we want retirees to know they are not only welcomed here but valued, supported and embraced as part of our communities. This recognition reflects our commitment to providing an enriching, worry-free and meaningful retirement experience.”

The Philippines has issued more than 83,000 SRRVs.