PARIS, FRANCE — The Philippines once again proved why it remains a global powerhouse in dive tourism, captivating the European market at the 2026 Paris Dive Show (Salon de la Plongée Sous-Marine) with its breathtaking marine treasures and strong conservation story.
From the pristine walls of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park to the vibrant underwater ecosystems of Bohol, Anilao, Cebu, Puerto Galera, Dumaguete, Ticao Island, and Southern Leyte, the country’s world-class dive destinations drew strong interest from international buyers, tour operators, and dive enthusiasts.
The result: more than PHP 80.15 million in generated sales leads during the four-day event — a 43 percent surge from last year’s PHP 56 million — underscoring Europe’s growing appetite for Philippine dive experiences.
Held at the Parc des Expositions in Paris, the annual Salon de la Plongée Sous-Marine remains one of Europe’s most influential dive industry gatherings. The Philippines’ 90-square-meter Pavilion stood out with immersive underwater photography panels from 12 Department of Tourism-accredited dive establishments, spotlighting the country’s unmatched marine biodiversity, sustainability-driven programs, and conservation-first tourism model.
Southern Leyte’s Sogod Bay Dive Sites emerged as the Pavilion’s Featured Destination, with the DOT Regional Office VIII showcasing the area’s rising reputation as a biodiversity-rich and conservation-oriented dive hub. Known for whale sharks, macro life, and thriving reefs, Sogod Bay’s profile continues to gain traction among European divers seeking authentic and eco-conscious adventures.
Global spotlight on marine conservation
Adding prestige to the Philippine showcase was internationally acclaimed underwater photographer Laurent Ballesta, a four-time Wildlife Photographer of the Year awardee. At the Pavilion, Ballesta unveiled “Far from the Sky,” a compelling exhibit featuring rare deep-sea images captured during his expedition to Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park at depths of up to 150 meters.
The exhibit, accompanied by film screenings and public talks, highlighted groundbreaking discoveries from his Gombessa Expeditions mission, which documented previously unseen marine species and generated pioneering scientific data. His award-winning Pangatalan Island series — showcasing reef recovery and ecosystem resilience — further reinforced the Philippines’ leadership in marine protection and sustainable tourism.
The country’s consistent presence at the Paris Dive Show reflects the Department of Tourism’s long-term strategy to strengthen brand positioning in France and across Europe, promoting the Philippines not only as a world-class dive destination but also as a responsible steward of marine ecosystems and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Among the Philippine exhibitors were Seadoors Liveaboard, Sea Explorers, Solitude Acacia Resort, Ticao Island Resort, Blue Lagoon Dive Resort, El Galleon Resort/Asia Divers, M/Y Resolute, Thalatta Resort, Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort, Atmosphere Resorts & Spa, Magic Resorts Philippines, Abyssworld Philippines, Inc., Peter’s Dive Resort, and Sogod Bay Scuba Resort.
Government officials also lent strong support, led by Negros Oriental Governor Manuel Sagarbarria, Provincial Tourism Executive Director Woodrow C. Maquiling Jr., and board members Erwin Michael Macias, Jessica Jane Villanueva, and Bruno Bouffard III.
The strong European reception comes on the heels of the Philippines’ seventh consecutive win as World’s Leading Dive Destination at the World Travel Awards in 2025 — a testament to its enduring appeal, thriving reefs, and firm commitment to conservation.
With momentum building in Europe, the Philippines is not just attracting divers — it is strengthening its position as one of the planet’s most extraordinary underwater frontiers.