First, the Philippines was marketed as an ideal beach getaway in the world, then it was promoted as a unique snorkelling destination. Now, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is marketing the country as one of the best diving hubs in Asia. Locally, we’ve already known our country to be a great place to practice and learn diving. Currently, the DOT is planning to brand our diving spots to the international community as beginner-friendly and a place where professional divers can enjoy their sport at the same time.
Also read: 9 Best Diving Spots in the Philippines for Your Aquaventures
“We have a lot of our tourists. We have now 26 countries (nationalities) who came here just for the dive spots. I just came from Zamboanga del Norte and I’m actually surprised to see that they have really good diving destinations and there were a lot of Japanese who were there just to go diving,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said.
The Philippines will not only be marketed as an ideal diving spot for divers but also for professional photographers who are interested in capturing rich marine life. According to DOT Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr., “Part of our commitment is to make sure that we promote the Philippines as a whole to the international diving community and more specifically to look at two segments that we feel we have a distinct advantage in: underwater photography and beginner divers”.
In light of the DOT’s new marketing initiative for the country’s tourism, they promise to also look out for the protection of our marine life as more tourists flock to the Philippines’ diving spots. “We will make policies to make sure that everything is actually protected. Of course, you know that our overarching theme is sustainable tourism and of course, that goes with all marine resources,” assured Secretary Romulo-Puyat.
Also read: Travelling Green: Eco-Friendly Activities for Your Itinerary
News sourced from Republic of the Philippines News Agency
