Scuba diving group explores Ilocos Norte’s potential as diving destination

A beach in Currimao, Ilocos Norte

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff Reporter

Currimao, Ilocos Norte—The beaches in the province may yet become another source of tourism come-on following the exploration of a group for potential as scuba diving destination.

The Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving (PCSSD) has cited the coastal waters of Ilocos Norte province as one of the potential scuba diving destinations in this premier tourism destination of the north.

Benedict Reyes, PCSSD commissioner under the umbrella of the Department of Tourism confirmed this following a weeklong training on scuba diving and life saving techniques at the Girl Scout of the Philippines camp site at Brgy. Victoria here in Currimao, Ilocos Norte on July 15-19.

Attended by 30 participants from the various local government units of Ilocos Norte, Mr. Reyes said the PCSSD is in the province to launch the training program for scuba divers, along with teaching basic life saving techniques and rehabilitation of coral reefs.

He added that the PCSSD in partnership with the provincial government of Ilocos Norte would like to explore the province’s great potential as a scuba diving site for tourists.

At the same time, the participants are likewise taught how to conduct rescue operation including the planting of artificial coral reefs in support of the government’s coastal resources management program.

Earlier, a survey by Scuba Diving Magazine, through its website www.scubadiving.com, showed that scuba divers considered the Philippines and Malaysia the best diving destinations in this part of the world.

“The website is host to the most knowledgeable and honest community of real divers from all over the world on the Internet,” the DOT said.

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