Dive Suit Up: 7 PH Dive Spots Ready For Tourists, Diving Enthusiasts

Through the years, the Philippines has been a constant recipient of awards and recognitions from global tourism institutions for its beautiful dive destinations and diverse dive tourism offerings. For instance, the country has been named as World's Leading Dive Destination by the World Travel Awards (WTA)--the travel industry's most prestigious awards program--for three consecutive years since 2019.

Here are seven dive destinations in the Philippines that prove that the country is one of the hottest destinations in the international diving industry. These places were featured at the Philippine Dive Expo, which was organized by the Department of Tourism, at the SMX MOA in Pasay City.

1. TUBBATAHA, PALAWAN is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is host to 700 species of fish and 360 species of corals, which makes it a paradise for divers and underwater photographers alike. The presence of apex marine predators like hammerhead and tiger sharks in Tubbataha waters is also telling of its bountiful marine ecosystem.

The Tubbataha Reef is considered a crucial component of the surrounding area's economy and underwater ecosystem. Its diverse fauna helps support the fishery industry beyond the Sulu Sea. The most ideal time to go diving in Tubbataha is from mid-March to mid-June when the seas are calm and visibility is good under clear skies. Because of its remote location, Tubbataha can be accessed only via liveaboards, offering divers a great way to immerse in nature and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea from day to night.

2. ANILAO, BATANGAS has grown to become one of the go-to destinations in Luzon for diving, primarily due to its accessibility to Manila and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, one of the country's major international gateways. But more than being a quick dive getaway destination, Anilao is undeniably important to nearby communities because of its marine protected sanctuary and rich biodiversity, which also makes it a haven for underwater photographers. In Anilao, a diver could easily be surrounded by a wide variety of nudibranchs, as well as crabs, shrimps, and cuttlefish.

The best time to go diving in Anilao is from November to May. Those looking to visit Anilao can choose from its many hillside and beach accommodations. Mostly west facing, these establishments offer the best view of the sunset--a sight to behold after enjoying the wonders under the sea.

3. PUERTO GALERA, ORIENTAL MINDORO. Beyond the amazing expanse of white sand beaches, Puerto Galera is a majestic dive spot that domestic and international tourists alike have fallen in love with over the years. When in Puerto Galera, divers can expect to see colorful coral reefs that are homes to diverse marine species and reef fish species, as well as turtles, rays, eels, and crustaceans.

For the best visibility, warm waters, and good sea conditions, divers are advised to visit Puerto Galera between the months of April and September.

4. VERDE ISLAND PASSAGE. Located in the heart of the Coral Triangle, Verde Island Passage is home to tons of critters and corals. From sharks, manta, and eagle rays, to tuna, jacks, and mackerels, Verde Island has them all. Because of its diversity, first-timers and veteran divers alike will surely enjoy every dive session at this destination.

The best time to dive in Verde Island is from mid-November to mid-April, when the sea surface is calm and visibility is at 30 meters. Divers must bear in mind that currents at Verde Island pack a punch, so it's recommended that you dive there when the waters are steady.

5. APO ISLAND, DAUIN is home to the first community-run marine sanctuary. Apo Island residents take conservation seriously and this is reflected in the waters of the area, which is ever-teeming with colorful marine life, and the coastline of Dauin that serves as a nursery for various species of critters.

In Apo Island's waters, whales and dolphins frequently put on a show. Species of nudibranchs, eels, and fishes also thrive in the island's waters, interacting with healthy corals all around. The dive season in Apo Island is from October to May, giving divers plenty of time to explore the depths of the island. Meanwhile, the monsoon season in this area is from June to September, during which strong waves and winds can be experienced.

Aside from its marine life, Apo Island is also popular for its rock formations located throughout its waters.

6. PANGLAO ISLAND, BOHOL. Accessible via Cebu and Bohol International Airport, Panglao Island boasts many diving spots, each offering a wonderful and unique underwater experience.

An explosion of colors from corals of different hues and sizes can be expected when diving in Panglao. Its multitude of critters such as nudibranchs, crustaceans, and fish make the visit to the island all worthwhile. Some divers even opt to explore during nighttime for a totally different diving experience in Panglao's waters.

The best time to visit Panglao Island waters is from November to May. Divers must note, however, that this period is also Bohol's peak season for tourists and so beaches and dive sites may be filled with people during this time of year.

7. MALAPASCUA, CEBU is in the epicenter of the Coral Triangle, making it a hub of endless opportunities to witness marine life upclose. It is not uncommon to hear of travelers raving about Malapascua's beautiful waters as well as its resident Thresher Sharks, which are considered harmless species. These sharks are usually hard to approach and shy, but this demeanor doesn't lessen their appeal to divers. Other species of sharks like hammerheads and whitetips also reside in Malapascua waters, along with a wide variety of nudibranchs, fish, seahorses, and crustaceans.

It's quite possible to go diving in Malapascua the whole year, but the best time to do so is from January to April. Divers are cautioned, however, that weather conditions during the months of November and December can get rough.

It is apparent that the existence and maintenance of the country's dive spots do not come naturally, and would require the long-term commitment and concerted efforts of all players such as the national government, local government units (LGUs), communities, and business operators to safeguard the country's waters.

With the theme “Back into the Blue,” this year's PHIDEX is anticipated to showcase dive spots, technologies, products, business-to-business platforms as well as a conference featuring dive experts, underwater photographers, marine conservationists, and scientists as speakers.