ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) — The Department of Tourism (DOT) Mimaropa is actively working to establish Romblon as one of the Philippines’ premier diving sites.
DOT Mimaropa Regional Director Roberto Alabado III emphasized the government’s continuous efforts to promote Romblon to local and international markets.
The DOT has identified at least 22 diving sites across the islands of Carabao, Sibuyan, Tablas, and Romblon, including the Bonbon Sea Grass Valley near the world-famous Bonbon Beach.
Alabado said one of the popular activities alongside diving in Romblon is underwater photography. The diverse marine life in the region provides an excellent subject for photographers, making Romblon a sought-after destination for capturing underwater organisms.
“Romblon is part of the Verde Island Passage, known for its unique marine life, especially Nudibranchs [which are small marine mollusks]. Romblon is particularly appealing to macro-photographers who seek out tiny, colorful shrimps, seahorses, and other small organisms,” said Alabado.
Despite these efforts, he stressed the importance of private sector involvement to further boost the diving industry in the province.
“Romblon has great potential, but we need to encourage private sector investment in diving facilities. More dive shops in the area will attract more visitors,” he added.
In 2022, the DOT reported that foreign dive visitors contributed P37 billion, accounting for over 17.5 percent of the Philippines’ total tourism receipts.
Alabado is the guest of the July 9 episode of Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas organized by the Presidential Communications Office through the Philippine Information Agency. The event was held in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro. (PJF/PIA MIMAROPA-Romblon)
