EARLIER this week, the Department of Tourism (DoT) announced that the 'Asia's Best Cruise Destination 2023' award had been conferred on the Philippines in an event that was, unsurprisingly, held in Dubai. Tourism Secretary Cristina Garcia Frasco described the award as 'a big win for Philippine tourism, as it reflects a resounding global preference for our island destinations' and vowed that 'We are committed to maintaining and enhance the Philippines' standing as an outstanding cruise destination in Asia and the world.'