To reinforce the country’s position as a premier destination for diving and marine biodiversity exploration, the Department of Tourism (DoT) recently launched the Philippine Dive Experience, given that the Philippines was recognized as the World’s Leading Dive Destination for six consecutive years at the World Travel Awards.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the launch of the dive-focused initiative under the DoT’s Philippine Experience program in Anilao, Batangas on Thursday.

Guests were high-ranking diplomats South Korean Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang Hwa, Bangladesh Ambassador F.M Borhan Uddin, Indian Ambassador Harsh Kumar Jain, Lao-PDR Ambassador Sonexay Vannaxay, Malaysian Ambassador Malik Melvin, New Zealand Ambassador Catherine McIntosh, Sri Lanka Ambassador Chanaka Talpahewa, Thailand Ambassador Tull Traisorat, Vietnam Ambassador Lai Binh, as well as diplomatic and consular corps officials from Cambodia, China, France, Indonesia and the United States.

The diplomats were joined by leaders of the dive and tourism sectors, heads of tourism associations, dive operators, and certification agencies.

“At the heart of the Philippine Dive Experience is our President’s vision of transformation for tourism. We’re not interested in recovering only what was lost, but rather in transcending to the rightful place that the Philippines deserves in the global community of tourism nations. A country that prioritizes the sustainability of its destinations and the regeneration of its resources while it seeks to reintroduce itself to the world from the strength of its identity, heritage, and culture,” Frasco said.

The secretary highlighted Anilao’s strategic role and its connection to the globally significant Verde Island Passage.

“Starting here in Anilao, a world-renowned diving destination, we shine a spotlight on the Verde Island Passage. This globally significant corridor is a haven for marine life and a dream destination for underwater photographers,” Frasco, a certified diver, said.

Divers then explored Anilao’s vibrant underwater landscapes, including Love Reef — an artificial reef created through community-driven conservation efforts. Non-divers were introduced to the underwater world through guided scuba experiences, offering an immersive glimpse into the Philippines’ marine treasures.

A coastal cleanup at Anilao Pier emphasized the DoT’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

“On the sustainability of dive tourism, we have worked with our partners from the private sector, our regional offices, and our stakeholders from around the world to continue interest in Philippine diving, as well as to inject education and importance on the conservation of our marine resources,” Frasco said.

At the event, the secretary announced key initiatives to boost dive tourism, including the installation of hyperbaric chambers at strategic dive sites to ensure diver safety and meet international standards.

She also highlighted the success of the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence program, which has trained over 262,000 tourism professionals nationwide, including more than 10,000 from the Calabarzon region.

These efforts come as the Philippine dive industry continues to thrive, contributing ₱73 billion in revenue in 2023 and playing a crucial role in sustainable economic growth, livelihood creation, and environmental conservation.