The Negros Oriental Dive Festival, held in the towns of Dauin and Zamboanguita from July 25-29, was a significant event promoting marine tourism and environmental awareness.
It culminated in a grand awarding and closing ceremony, held at the Silver Reef Dive Resort in Brgy. Maayongtubig, Dauin, July 29, with Negros Oriental Governor Chaco Sagarbarria as among the guests of honor.
By attending this event, Sagarbarria demonstrated his support for initiatives that not only celebrate the region’s natural beauty but also foster community engagement in preserving marine ecosystems, the Capitol said in a press release July 30, adding that the governor underscored commitment to enhancing the province’s tourism sector through sustainable practices.
Executive director Marco Angelo Ancheta of the Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving, meanwhile, highlighted the importance of collaboration between government agencies and local stakeholders in promoting scuba diving as a viable tourism venture.
He emphasized a national perspective on regional efforts to develop dive tourism while advocating for responsible practices that protect the underwater environments.
The alignment between local and national interests is crucial in formulating effective policies that enhance both economic growth and environmental sustainability, the Capitol added.
Dauin Mayor Galicano Truita also stressed the LGU’s role in driving tourism initiatives within Negros Oriental, and the need for a unified approach towards leveraging natural resources for economic development. ||
