Boracay becoming a major wedding destination

MANILA, Philippines – Boracay island in Aklan is not only a favorite among beachgoers, it is also becoming a major wedding destination.

Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez made the statement in a television interview on Thursday as he unveiled his department’s newest ad under the “It’s more fun in the Philippines” campaign.

In the short clip, a man is seen proposing to his girlfriend in Boracay, with four paraw sailboats bearing the words “Will you marry me?”

With the ad, Jimenez hopes to promote the Philippines not only as a “fun” destination but also as a romantic getaway among tourists, particularly Koreans.

“A very large part of the Korean market has a very romantic bent. They arrive as couples,” he said in an interview on ANC’s “Headstart.”

“In fact, we are becoming… Boracay, for example, is becoming a major destination for weddings. It started with Filipinos getting there, and now you have foreigners going there to get married,” he added. “That romantic side to us is very appealing to a lot of foreigners, like the Japanese, Koreans, and even Europeans. Aside from all the laughter, the humor, the food, romance is very much a part of our offering.”

Known for its powdery white sand and crystal clear waters, Boracay has been recognized several times by different magazines and polls across the globe.

A poll by the hotel booking site Agoda.com has named it the best place in the world for relaxation, while Travel + Leisure magazine declared it as the world’s best island getaway.