New dive destination launched
THE Department of Tourism-10 introduces Laguindingan as a new diving destination during the launch of the MisOr Dive Festival on 11 November, highlighting its rare Lembeh sea dragon and other underwater attractions. Also promoted were dive sites in Gingoog, Talisayan, Balingoan and Medina.
Photograph courtesy of Misamis Oriental Provincial Information Office/fb
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Department of Tourism Region 10 (DoT-10), in partnership with the Misamis Oriental provincial government, has opened the 6th Misamis Oriental Dive Festival 2026, introducing Laguindingan as the province’s newest dive tourism destination.
Led by DoT-10 regional director Marie Elaine S. Unchuan and Gov. Juliette T. Uy, the festival officially opened on Wednesday at the Events Center of the West Concourse of Limketkai Center in Cagayan de Oro City.
Festival activities will run until 15 November.
This year’s gathering marks the official launch of Laguindingan as a new dive tourism hub, introducing its newly developed dive site to divers and tourism stakeholders.
The destination joins the province’s established diving spots in Gingoog City, Medina, Talisayan and Balingoan.
Centered on responsible marine exploration and conservation, the festival promotes sustainable coastal tourism across the province.
Organizers said responsible diving helps protect coral reefs and marine habitats, which are vital resources supporting local fishing grounds and tourism attractions.
The development of well-managed dive sites is also expected to generate livelihood opportunities for boat operators, dive guides, accommodation providers and small-scale coastal entrepreneurs.
The opening program began at 4 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the launch of an underwater photography exhibit.
Laguindingan Mayor Roy I. Macua led the unveiling of the municipality’s new dive destination and its flagship dive site.
Acclaimed dive videographer Bo Mancao shared insights into the area’s underwater beauty and diving potential, followed by a press conference at the same venue.
The exhibit features works by internationally recognized underwater photographer Ram Yoro, showcasing the marine biodiversity of Misamis Oriental.
Among the festival’s key activities is ScuBasurero in Gingoog City, an underwater cleanup initiative that puts the event’s environmental advocacy into practice.
The festival will also feature the Underwater Shoot Out, a photography and videography competition highlighting the province’s diverse marine life and underwater scenery.
DoT-10 invited divers, tourism partners, local government units and the general public to join the festival and discover the province’s marine attractions and dive sites.
Through the initiative, Misamis Oriental aims to strengthen its position as a major dive tourism destination in Northern Mindanao while advancing marine conservation and sustainable tourism development.