DOT launches Philippine Dive Experience in Anilao

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) launched on Thursday the Philippine Dive Experience in Anilao, Batangas, reinforcing the Philippines' status as a top destination worldwide for diving and exploring marine biodiversity.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the dive-focused initiative under the DOT's Philippine Experience program, in recognition of the Philippines' sixth consecutive year as the World's Leading Dive Destination at the World Travel Awards.

She said the DOT would continue promoting sustainable dive tourism in the country.

WORLD’S TOP DIVING DESTINATION Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco launches the Philippine Dive Experience with high-ranking diplomats including South Korean Ambassador Lee Sang Hwa, Bangladesh Ambassador 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 from Cambodia, China, France, Indonesia, and the US. DOT PHOTO

«The Philippines holds the distinct privilege of being one of only 18 mega biodiverse countries in the world. And we find ourselves here at the center of marine biodiversity, where we realize that if we do not prioritize conservation and shepherd the sustainable industry — that is diving, then we post the risk of not only losing these marine wonders but also of depriving future generations of sources of income and livelihood,» Frasco said.

«This is why, we have been very consistent and aggressive in ensuring that we support dive from all pillars of development.»

The event, which recognized the Philippines' outstanding marine biodiversity and potential to attract global recognition, was attended by executives from the diving and tourism sectors, as well as the leaders of tourism organizations, dive operators, and certification bodies.

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Anilao, a world-renowned diving location, served as the starting point for the Philippine Dive Experience tourism circuit.

Frasco emphasized Anilao's strategic value and its relation to the Verde Island Passage.