The Philippines has strengthened its standing as a top global diving hub after winning the Island Charm Award, recognizing the country’s unique appeal to tourists, at the Diving Resort and Travel (DRT) Expo held in Beijing on Aug. 8 to 10.

Led by the Department of Tourism - Beijing and the Tourism Promotions Board, the country showcased its world-class marine attractions at the China National Convention Center, mounting a pavilion with major airlines, dive suppliers and resorts, including those from emerging dive sites in Romblon, Ticao Island (Masbate), and Camiguin.

The Philippines bagged the best diving destination award at last year’s DRT expo also held in Beijing.

A key highlight of the participation was the Philippine Dive Night, a business-matching event that brought together Chinese diving tour operators with Philippine airlines and resorts.

Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz said the country’s presence at the expo highlights its dual commitment to promoting tourism and safeguarding marine resources.

“The country remains dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism and fostering strong people-to-people exchanges through partnerships that protect its marine environment,” FlorCruz said.

China is currently the world’s fastest-growing dive market, with newly certified divers rising by 35 to 40 percent annually, according to industry reports.

This shift toward high-value, experience-based travel makes the Philippines’ unmatched marine biodiversity and iconic dive sites even more attractive to Chinese divers.

The DRT Expo is Asia’s largest international dive exhibition, staged annually in major cities including Hong Kong, Shanghai and Taipei.

Manila is set to host the next leg this September.

The Philippines’ award-winning participation in Beijing is seen as a strong boost to its tourism promotion drive, positioning the country as the “heart of Asia’s diving.”