The 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence recognised outstanding ASEAN tourism achievements in Cebu during ATF 2026, highlighting innovation, sustainability and cross-border collaboration across Southeast Asia.
The 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence were presented in Cebu, Philippines, during the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026 and TRAVEX, recognising leading organisations and initiatives shaping Southeast Asia’s tourism sector. The awards ceremony formed part of ATF 2026, one of the region’s most significant annual gatherings for tourism stakeholders.
Organised by the ASEAN Tourism Association (ASEANTA), the 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence highlighted measurable achievements in innovation, sustainability, destination promotion, and industry collaboration. With a history spanning more than three decades, the awards continue to serve as a regional benchmark for quality and responsible tourism development across ASEAN.
A regional benchmark for tourism excellence
Hosting the 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence in Cebu underscored the Philippines’ role within ASEAN tourism cooperation and provided a platform to showcase best practices from across the region. The awards recognise initiatives that demonstrate tangible impact while supporting ASEAN’s positioning as a competitive and unified tourism destination.
Speaking at the ceremony, Eddy Krismeidi Soemawilaga, President of ASEANTA, said:
“This year’s awardees represent the very best of ASEAN tourism – from sustainability leadership and cultural preservation to innovative marketing and world-class visitor experiences. Their achievements show how tourism excellence can drive positive impact not only for individual destinations, but for ASEAN as a region.”
Industry collaboration at the centre
In her opening address, Maria Margarita Nograles, Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, emphasised the role of collaboration in strengthening destinations across Southeast Asia. She noted:
“Tonight, we gather not just as neighbors, but as one ASEAN community united in celebrating the pioneers who continue to move our tourism industry forward.”
Referring to the evening’s theme, she added:
“Our theme this evening, ‘Honoring ASEAN’s Best in Tourism Excellence. Your Story. ASEAN’s Stage,’ reminds us that every destination has a story worth telling.”
Winners of the 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence
The recipients of the 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence reflect the diversity of ASEAN’s tourism ecosystem, spanning accommodation, attractions, marketing, sustainability, and travel services:
- Best ASEAN Convention Centre: SMX Convention Centre, Philippines
- Best ASEAN Cultural Preservation Effort: Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd, Malaysia
- Best ASEAN Eco-Lodge: Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd, Malaysia
- Best ASEAN Hotel Package: Lotus Desaru Beach Resort & Spa, Malaysia
- Best ASEAN Marketing & Promotional Program: AirAsia MOVE, Malaysia
- Best ASEAN New Tourism Attraction: Enchanted Kingdom Inc., Philippines
- Best ASEAN Sustainability Program: Sudamala Resorts, Indonesia
- Best ASEAN Tour Operator: CSL Travel & Tours, Cambodia
- Best ASEAN Travel Article: Shroff Travel, Philippines
Impact on ASEAN tourism development
Beyond recognition, the 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence aim to raise industry standards across Southeast Asia by encouraging continuous improvement in quality, innovation, and sustainability. By highlighting successful models, the awards support the replication and adaptation of best practices across different national and local contexts.
ASEANTA positions the Awards as a platform for knowledge-sharing and regional dialogue, supported by a transparent and merit-based evaluation process guided by experienced tourism leaders. This approach strengthens confidence among industry partners, policymakers, and international markets, while reinforcing ASEAN’s global tourism positioning.
Support from host institutions
ASEANTA expressed its appreciation to the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines and the Department of Tourism of the Philippines for their support and close collaboration in hosting the 35th ASEANTA Tourism Awards of Excellence in Cebu. Their partnership contributed to the successful delivery of the ceremony as part of ATF 2026 and further strengthened regional tourism cooperation across ASEAN.