DAVAO CITY, Philippines –— The Davao Dive Expo made a big splash on its third run from July 5-7 at the SM Lanang Atrium, focusing on sustainability while showcasing the rich underwater treasures of various participating regions.
Organized by the Department of Tourism XI (DOT XI) and SM Lanang, the expo featured 23 exhibitors from regions as far as CALABARZON, Northern Mindanao, SOCCSKSARGEN, and CARAGA, along with the Island Garden City of Samal, Mati City, Governor Generoso, and the Municipality of Mabini.
The three-day event, themed “Dive with a Purpose,” included daily forums on dive and marine protection led by esteemed conservation experts, a photo exhibit of captivating dive sites in the Davao Region, and over 20 exhibitors showcasing local dive shops, resorts, and prominent brands offering exclusive deals.
“Through this expo, we endeavor to showcase and create awareness and appreciation of our dive sites, specifically here in the Davao Region, and find sustainable ways to promote and protect them,” said DOT XI Regional Director Tanya Rabat Tan.
Renowned underwater photographer Ram Yoro and freediver and content creator Cha Ocampo joined the roster of respected local environmental champions as guest speakers in the tourism and environment forums scheduled throughout the event.
In addition to highlighting the breathtaking dive sites of the Davao Region, the event also called for public action to address threats to marine wildlife and ecosystems. The expo provided tourists and shoppers the opportunity to learn about existing marine wildlife and environment protection and conservation initiatives of the DOT XI and its partner agencies. The series of forums aimed to instill responsible tourism values among locals and tourists.
The Davao Dive Expo debuted on June 24, 2022, to reboot diving activities in the Davao Region. Since then, it has established itself as Mindanao’s premier and most-anticipated annual diving exhibition.
