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he Philippines has undeniably some of the best diving spots in Asia, with adventures that await beginners and professional divers who want to experience the thrill of roller-coaster drift dives. Underwater photography enthusiasts will enjoy documenting the diverse marine life that thrives in the clear tropical waters. The archipelagic state is part of the heart of the Coral Triangle, the world’s centre of marine biodiversity. It has the third-largest area of coral reef in the world at 25,060 km2 that is home to 75% of the world’s coral species and an abundant biodiversity that includes 3,000 species of fish. The government, environmental organizations, and local residents are working together to protect this rich marine biodiversity. The Philippines is a vibrant, colourful country and this extends to the marine life that is thriving under its seas. Health protocols are also being put into place at each destination for the safety of travellers while showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the Philippine seas. Join us as we ‘visit’ eight of the diving hotspots in the country.
The Philippines contain 7,107 islands, but only about 2,000 are inhabited, leaving plenty of deserted islands to explore. These thousands of islands form three main island groups, including Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.
Tubbataha Reef, Puerto Princesa
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is said to be one of the country’s oldest ecosystems. It covers 96,828 hectares of underwater adventures. This atoll reef has a very high density of marine biodiversity, with more than 700 fish species, over 360 coral species, 11 shark
We take a whistlestop tour around eight of the top diving locations in the Philippines, which was declared Asia’s Leading Dive Destination by the 28th World Travel Awards - the third consecutive year it has won the title Photographs by Jerome Kim, Sylvia Jenkins, Robert Yin, Gerald Nowak & Dugong Dive Center 30
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