Dive fotog spotlights Phl marine conservation

Rare deep-sea images from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park captured by internationally-acclaimed underwater photographer Laurent Ballesta at depths of up to 150 meters were shown at the Philippine Pavilion of the 2026 Paris Dive Show last 8 to 11 January.

The exhibit titled “Far from the Sky” that ran together with film screenings and public talks helped reinforce the Philippines’ global reputation as a premier dive destination and a leader in marine conservation and scientific exploration.

Ballesta also shared photos of previously unseen marine species from his recent Gombessa Expeditions mission to Tubbataha. His award-winning series from Pangatalan Island, highlighting reef recovery and ecosystem resilience, also had a premiere at the event to reinforce the Philippines’ national commitment to sustainable tourism development, marine protection and the conservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.