THE DEPARTMENT of Tourism Region XI (DOT XI) successfully convened local stakeholders for the inaugural Davao Dive Summit 2026 on Friday, March 27, at the Park Inn by Radisson Davao. This first-of-its-kind initiative gathered a diverse assembly of divers, instructors, operators, policymakers, and environmental advocates to forge a unified path toward industry innovation, rigorous safety standards, and marine conservation.
DOT XI regional director Tanya Rabat Tan emphasized that the summit was more than just a meeting of minds. She described it as “a vital space to deepen the industry’s collective commitment to safety and the protection of the region’s delicate marine ecosystems.”
The event served as a collaborative hub, highlighting talks on dive safety best practices, emerging global trends, and critical discussions on compliance and certification requirements. It also offered networking opportunities designed to knit together a more cohesive and resilient Davao dive community.
The speaker lineup featured prominent experts who tackled the multifaceted challenges of the industry. Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving (PCSSD) executive director Marco Angelo D. Ancheta provided essential updates on national dive safety and industry compliance, while LCDR Mark Anthony B. Tolentino of the Philippine Coast Guard detailed the organization’s ongoing marine environment conservation programs.
From the academic sector, Davao Oriental State University president Dr. Roy Ponce shared insights on reef protection practices, complemented by DAN World business liaison Romir Aglugub, who addressed risk mitigation through dive insurance. Technological advancements were highlighted by SSI Philippines training manager Gordos Mateo Gojunco, and the medical aspects of the sport were covered by Dr. Emmanuel Olmoguez of the Southern Philippines Medical Center, who guided attendees through the complexities of dive medicine and hyperbaric support.
An engaging open forum followed these presentations, allowing stakeholders to engage directly with experts. In his closing remarks, PCSSD commissioner for the private sector Dr. Alfred Medina urged the community to maintain close collaborations with “local government units, the Coast Guard, and stakeholders, from dive shop owners to the boatmen, all necessary for long-term success.”
The summit is the latest milestone in DOT XI’s long-standing mission to build a sustainable diving ecosystem. The agency’s efforts have spanned years of conducting dive-related training, validating dive sites across the region, and participating in major international dive expos and forums in Manila, Cebu, Florida, Bangkok, and Sydney. This groundwork led to the launch of the Davao Adventure Challenge, which features diving as one of the primary activities.
Director Tan concluded by outlining the “three pillars” for the future of diving in Davao.
”The real work is what we do next. If we want to truly establish Dive Davao and its circuits, where visitors don’t just come but stay longer and explore more, we must stand on three pillars: harmonized safety standards, sustainability by advocating for stronger marine protection and responsible tourism practices, and inclusivity,” she said.
Tan noted that when everyone in the industry participates, they become its most fierce protectors, allowing the sector to thrive.
By prioritizing marine conservation and safety, the Davao Dive Summit 2026 positions the region for revitalized growth. This unified approach ensures the Davao Gulf remains a sustainable and vital contributor to the nation’s economy and environment.
