08/07/2024
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 12 showcased Soccsksargen’s dive spots by participating in the Davao Dive Expo 2024, held from July 5-7 at the Atrium, SM Lanang, Davao City.
With the theme “Dive with a Purpose,” the expo highlighted ocean advocacy, attracting participants from various parts of the Philippines.
The Davao Dive Expo focused on responsible marine wildlife interaction, sustainable tourism practices, and crucial conversations about protecting marine ecosystems.
“This year’s Davao Dive Expo is entering its third edition, and we are shifting our focus to ocean advocacy. Negative impacts, often stemming from human activities, have significant effects on both land and the oceans.” DOT 11 Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan said in a press briefing in Davao.
RD Rabat-Tan emphasized efforts made by different organizations to protect marine life, highlighting that tourism can be a viable alternative to extractive industries.
The Davao Dive Expo also aims to inspire other local government units (LGUs), not only within the Davao Region but also across the entire country.
Divers can explore dive destinations across the Davao Region, including Samal Island, Mati, Governor Generoso, Baganga, and Mabini.
Regions 9, 10, 13, and even DOT Region 4A also participated in the event, showcasing a wider range of dive experiences for attendees.
The Dive SOX campaign, initiated by DOT 12, aims to sustain Soccsksargen’s diving industry as one of the economic drivers in terms of tourism.
It began five years ago with a Rapid Exploratory Assessment in Maasim and Glan, Sarangani, conducted by the Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving in collaboration with DOT 12.
The campaign introduced official Dive SOX logos, adopted by the Regional Ecotourism Committee 12 for all dive activities in the region.
Its main objectives include assessing coastal and marine habitats, along with activities like Sarbay Exploratory Dive Assessments, Scuba Diving Awareness for Tourism Stakeholders, and Dive SOX Branding Development, Tourism Stakeholders Open Water Dive Class and Training, among others.
(photo from Visit SOX Philippines)