Confirming its status as a premier global haven for seniors, the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) officially accepted the Best Retirement Destination in Asia for 2025 award from digital travel giant TripZilla. The prestigious recognition was presented during a formal ceremony on February 11, 2026, at the Le Parc Events Place in Pasay City.
The accolade highlights the Philippines’ successful positioning as a top-tier choice for international retirees, celebrated for its unique blend of world-class hospitality, diverse natural landscapes, and a cost-effective quality of life.
The award was accepted on behalf of the agency by PRA General Manager and CEO Roberto Z. Zozobrado and Deputy General Manager Atty. María Milagros Lisaca. Representing the awarding body was Mr. Benjamin Phey, General Manager of TripZilla, who lauded the country’s proactive approach to catering to the silver economy.
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work of the PRA team and our commitment to making the Philippines not just a place to visit, but a place to call home,” said GM Zozobrado. “We are honored that TripZilla and the international community recognize the warmth of our people and the strength of our retirement programs.”
The TripZilla Excellence Awards evaluate destinations based on traveler feedback, service quality, and infrastructure. The Philippines stood out in 2025 for several key factors:
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Competitive Residency Programs: The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) remains one of the most flexible and attractive retirement visas in Southeast Asia.
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Quality of Life: Access to high-quality healthcare, modern amenities, and a low cost of living allows retirees to enjoy a premium lifestyle.
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Warm Hospitality: The English-speaking population and the Filipinos’ innate culture of “Malasakit” (caring) provide a seamless transition for foreign nationals.
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Diverse Geographies: From the white sands of Boracay to the cool highlands of Baguio, the country offers a variety of environments suited to any retirement pace.
The award underscores the PRA’s strategic “Smile at Life” initiatives, which aim to streamline digital applications for retirees and expand partnerships with healthcare providers and leisure hubs across the archipelago. As the agency looks toward the remainder of 2026, it remains focused on further enhancing the safety, security, and comfort of its global retiree community.
The PRA is a government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC) attached to the Department of Tourism. Its mandate is to develop and promote the Philippines as a retirement destination to accelerate the socio-economic development of the country.
TripZilla is a leading culture and travel digital publication in Southeast Asia, reaching millions of travelers monthly. Their annual Excellence Awards recognize the best travel brands and destinations that deliver innovative and exceptional experiences.
