Phillippines - The Visayas Region

I have been waiting for many years to dive the Philippines and the chance finally came to dive the Visayas Region. We started in Cebu City and ended in Dumaguete. I dove 22 times in 6 days on the new Philippines Aggressor. I took over 750 pictures and saw a lot of amazing things. I can't say enough about how friendly and lovely the Filipino people are. Despite great adversity at times, their positive outlook amazes me. I was fortunate to encounter some young Filipino people who inspired me with their work ethic, love of nature, outgoing and tolerant attitudes, and willingness to work very hard for practically nothing. They see opportunities where we see defeat. I was honored to be included in their company, and to be able to have honest discussions about their world and their hopes and dreams for the future.


Double treat for me: the people and the diving were superb. The person I traveled with put up with me and for that they deserve a gold medal. How many times do you sit out a typhoon with somebody? That's when you know you picked right on the buddy roster. Despite the typhoon at the end of the trip (!!!) which made getting home very interesting, I count the days until I can go back to see the great reefs of Palawan and see my friend there and perhaps Batangas, and back to Dauin and Dumeguete and Romblon. Apo Island was amazing and I would love to see that area again!