Ang Pahayagan

BALER, AURORA — The Province of Aurora continues to rise as a premier eco-tourism destination as it earns a prestigious nomination for Asia’s Leading Regional Nature Destination in the 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA)—an international recognition that underscores the province’s rich natural endowments and firm commitment to sustainable tourism.

Provincial Tourism Officer Ana Riza S. Mendoza confirmed the nomination, which was formally endorsed by the Department of Tourism Region III. The regional office submitted a comprehensive portfolio detailing Aurora’s nature-based attractions, including its pristine coastlines, forest reserves, marine sanctuaries, protected landscapes, and vast watershed systems.

“This is a proud moment for Aurora,” Mendoza said. “We are thankful to DOT Region 3 for recognizing the value of our ecological treasures and for pushing our nomination forward to the global stage.”

The World Travel Awards, often dubbed the “Oscars of the travel industry,” annually recognizes excellence in tourism and hospitality worldwide. Aurora now stands alongside Asia’s most renowned eco-tourism destinations, with voting open to the public, industry professionals, and global travelers since last week.

The nomination comes on the heels of Aurora’s record-breaking 1.16 million tourist arrivals during the recent Holy Week and SUMVAC 2025, a figure that reflects the growing draw of the province among nature-loving travelers and adventure seekers alike.

Mendoza emphasized that the recognition is a testament not only to Aurora’s natural beauty but also to the collaborative efforts of local government units, tourism stakeholders, and communities in safeguarding the environment while developing responsible tourism.

“A win for Aurora will not only bring honor to our province, but will also inspire more nature-based tourism efforts across the Central Luzon region,” she added.

With voting started last week, Aurora’s nomination sets the stage for a potentially historic victory in the global tourism arena—further positioning the province as a model of environmental stewardship and sustainable development. (Jason de Asis)