A pristine marine sanctuary in Occidental Mindoro leads MIMAROPA region in securing multiple international tourism accolades. 

The Apo Reef Natural Park in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, has been recognized as a 2024 ASEAN Heritage Park, cementing its status as one of Southeast Asia’s most important ecological treasures.

The prestigious designation, awarded by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, acknowledges the marine sanctuary’s crucial role in biodiversity conservation and comes as part of a wave of international recognition for MIMAROPA region.

Department of Tourism (DOT) MIMAROPA Regional Director Roberto P. Alabado III announced the achievements during a press forum dubbed as Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas. 

“This is a milestone for MIMAROPA region, showcasing our natural wonders and reaffirming the Philippines’ position as a top global travel destination,” said Alabado.

Across the region, other destinations have secured notable international rankings. 

Bonbon Beach in Romblon claimed the 45th position on the “World’s 50 Best Beaches list,” celebrated for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.

Palawan emerged as a particularly decorated destination, ranking 4th among Tripadvisor’s World’s Trending Destinations for 2024 and 13th on Travel+Leisure’s Best Islands to Visit globally.

The island also earned recognition as the “3rd Most Visited Island in Asia” by Times Travel India and the “10th Most Desirable Island in the World” by Wanderlust Travel Magazine.

In Busuanga, Palawan, the local tourism industry received a boost after being named the “3rd Trending Destination” by Skyscanner Australia.

Other locations gathering international acclaim include Maremegmeg Beach in El Nido, featured in Lonely Planet’s list of Incredible Beaches in the World, while Siete Pecados Marine Park in Coron received the “Blue Park Award” from the Marine Conservation Institute for marine preservation excellence. 

Entalula Island in El Nido ranked 4th on the “World’s 50 Best Beaches” list.

DOT MIMAROPA said it targets to set new standards for sustainable tourism while attracting more international visitors to the region’s diverse natural attractions.