CEBU CITY – Hundreds are expected to take part in the DIVE7 Festival that the municipalities of Zamboanguita and Dauin in Negros Oriental will host from July 28 to 31.
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In a statement, DOT 7 said the dive festival was launched last year and has attracted experienced and beginner divers.
The Negros Oriental leg of the festival this year kicks off on the Zamboanguita coastline and closes in Dauin. Underwater and beach cleanups will be held in both municipalities.
Participants may take diving lessons from certified instructors of dive shops accredited by the Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving (PCSSD).
A list will be available at the event. The mermaiding experience or Scuba lessons with full face mask will also be available with the first 14 given free of charge.
Highlighting the festival is an underwater photography contest envisioned to capture the marine kaleidoscope that has flourished over the two-year Covid-19 hiatus, said DIVE7 program head Gloriece Do.
The competition is open to amateur and professional underwater lensmen of all nationalities, provided that the participant is residing in the Philippines at the time of registration.
Participants can keep their shutters going throughout the duration of the multi-activity event. All entries must be submitted by 9 a.m. on July 31.
Cooperating with the DOT 7 for the dive festival are the PCSSD, Tourism Promotions Board, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Philippine Coast Guard, the province of Negros Oriental, the two municipalities, Zamboanguita Diving and Leisure Resorts Association, Negros Oriental Dive Association, and the Dauin Resorts Association.