Dive Into Beauty: Discover Why the Philippines Is a Premier Dive Destination

Known as one of the world’s top diving destinations, the Philippines was hailed as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia and Oceania Gala Ceremony which was held at City of Dreams Manila last September. 

The Philippines is honored to host the prestigious WTA for the first time as it shows the country’s readiness to stage such international events. Known as the “Oscars” of the travel industry, the WTA was established in 1993 and rewards outstanding members of the tourism industry. Internationally recognized for being the ultimate hallmark of quality, WTA winners are seen as the benchmark for everyone in the tourism industry.

This year, the Philippines received seven awards namely, Asia’s Leading Beach Destination, Asia’s Leading Dive Destination, Asia’s Leading Island Destination, Asia's Leading Luxury Island Destination (Boracay), Asia's Leading Tourist Attraction (Intramuros), Asia’s Leading Marketing Campaign (Love the Philippines), Asia's Leading Wedding Destination (Cebu), and the Transformational Leader Award in Tourism Governance for Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. 

Asia’s Leading Dive Destination

In 2023, Dive Tourism contributed P73 billion to the Philippine Economy, which is almost double the P37 billion revenue generated in 2022. This outstanding achievement reaffirmed the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) commitment to continuous development and promotion of dive tourism in the country. 

“As one of the megadiverse countries in the world, we are home to more than 500 species of corals and 2,000 species of fish. Therefore, this distinction for the Philippines we take to heart with a firm commitment to ensure not just the marketability, but more importantly, the sustainability of our dive industry,” shared Sec. Frasco.

Diverse diving experience

“We are highly enthusiastic in promoting the Philippines to diving enthusiasts all around the world. Earlier this year, we hosted the International Dive Expo (PHIDEX) at the World Trade Center Metro Manila to showcase our wonderful offerings for divers of all levels, backgrounds, and interests. Aside from being one of the 17 megadiverse countries in the world, the Philippines is an ideal destination for divers as it offers different types of diving experiences. As a certified diver, I can attest that diving in the Philippines is always a magical experience and something that I am excited to share with everyone in the world.” she added. 

Sec. Frasco has initiated opportunities to enhance the diving experience in the country by engaging the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) on plans to establish five additional hyperbaric chambers across the country. Keeping to heart the safety and well-being of the diving community and tourists, Sec. Frasco believes that it is essential to provide such facilities in the country’s dive destinations like Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro, Boracay, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Camiguin. The five new hyperbaric chambers are in addition to the existing 15 that are already available. The DOT is also working closely with the Philippine Commission on Sports SCUBA Diving (PCSSD) to develop and audit dive sites across the country.

Just recently, DOT Region 10 also successfully hosted the 4th NorthMin Dive Festival in Camiguin Province, which is just one of the Department’s regional dive events that attracts local and foreign dive enthusiasts. 

Award-Winning Dive Sites

The Philippines has something exciting to offer every type of diving enthusiast. Here are some of the most beautiful and award-winning dive sites that make the Philippines a must-visit destination for divers.  

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park - recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is known as one of the best dive sites in the world. Located in the Sulu Sea, this pristine marine park has spectacular coral walls, deep drop-offs, and abundant marine life like reef sharks and sea turtles. Divers who are interested in visiting should plan their trip around March to June, which is diving season, as this is the only time that the marine park is open for diving. This is to ensure that the coral ecosystem is undisturbed for the majority of the year. 

Apo Reef Natural Park - the largest contiguous coral reef system in the Philippines, the Apo Reef Natural Park is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers divers an incredible experience. From its underwater landscapes filled with soft and hard corals to its diverse fish species, Apo Reef Natural Park is the perfect destination for both scuba divers and snorkelers. One of the highlights of diving here is witnessing the abundant variety of large pelagic fish.

Anilao, Batangas - just a short drive from Metro Manila, Anilao is another popular dive destination frequented by local and foreign divers. It is known for macro diving, wherein divers can encounter tiny creatures like nudibranchs, frogfish, and seahorses. It offers a variety of dive sites that are suitable for different skill levels, so even novice divers will be able to comfortably explore while seasoned divers will enjoy practicing their underwater photography skills.

Coron, Palawan - frequently listed as one of the world’s best dive destinations, Coron is especially famous for wreck diving. Divers can explore numerous Japanese wrecks from World War II that have now become artificial reefs and home to various marine life. Aside from wreck diving, Coron also has stunning coral gardens making it a unique dive destination.

Malapascua Island - another globally recognized dive destination for offering unique experiences, Malapascua is perfect for adventure seekers who want a chance to swim with thresher sharks. These majestic creatures are a major attraction for divers who visit the island.

The local dive community is also very friendly and very welcoming to divers from all around the world making for a great opportunity to also connect.

From Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, the Philippines is home to a plethora of dive destinations that cater to all types of divers. Aside from incredible dive sites, there is also a wide selection of resorts where divers and their companions will be able to rest, relax, and enjoy after exploring the Philippines’ rich waters. Make sure not to miss out on this experience when visiting the Philippines.