The Department of Tourism (DOT) is back in the online space in presenting this year's Philippine International Dive Expo (PHIDEX) in efforts to support and sustain the country's diving industry amid the ongoing health crisis.
With the theme "Our Sea, Our Story," PHIDEX aims to raise awareness and discuss solutions to accelerate the recovery of the local diving industry, which has been hard hit by the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
Highlighting the popularity of Philippine diving destinations the world over, Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat emphasized the importance of consolidating efforts to sustain the local diving industry.
"This year’s PHIDEX is a step in the right direction to sustain our gains toward recovery, for all to enjoy the natural wonders our archipelago can provide," Puyat said.
The Philippines was hailed as the world's leading dive destination during the 2020 World Travel Awards.
PHIDEX has been the Philippines' largest platform for the diving community since 2019. The global COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the three-day event going digital for the time being. allowing it to reach more members of the diving community.
This year’s PHIDEX, which will run from March 19 to 21, features prominent international personalities-slash-experts who will discuss topics on the diving industry as well as the protection of Philippine seas.
Aside from lectures and panel discussions, the event website will also serve as a space for divers and enthusiasts to purchase equipment from partners and exhibitors through a virtual marketplace section called the Dive Travel Exchange or TRAVEX.
Divers and enthusiasts can now register for PHIDEX 2021 for free at https://phidex.asia/ until March 21, or visit PHIDEX's official Facebook page and website at www.phidex.asia for more information.