(NORTHERN SAMAR PROVINCIAL INFORMATION OFFICE)
TACLOBAN CITY– With its stunning beaches and rich marine biodiversity, the province of Northern Samar is making a significant push to establish itself as the diving capital of Eastern Visayas.
In a strategic move to boost local tourism and sustainable economic development, the provincial government has tapped local divers by conducting a free diving certification course.
This initiative aims to equip local freediving enthusiasts with the necessary skills and certification to create a vibrant freediving community, Jan Allen Berbon, who heads the Provincial Economic and Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), said.
Aside from the Provincial Tourism Office, PEDIPO is also helping promote the tourism industry of the province as one of the economic drivers of Northern Samar.
“These certified divers are expected to become tourism focal points, enhancing the appeal of Northern Samar’s waters to both domestic and international tourists,” Berbon said on Friday, July 26.
“These local experts will enhance the tourism experience by providing guided diving tours and sharing in-depth knowledge of the underwater treasures of Northern Samar,” he added.
This initiative, he said, not only aims to attract thousands of tourists but also to create job opportunities for the local population.
The expected growth in tourism is anticipated to significantly benefit the hospitality, food services, and transportation sectors.
Furthermore, positioning Northern Samar as a premier diving destination is likely to attract investors in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Berbon said that the expected influx of investment could lead to the development of more infrastructure and services, further enhancing the province’s appeal as a tourist destination.
Northern Samar boasts an impressive 13,700 kilometers of coastal area, featuring some of the Philippines’ most picturesque beaches and untapped marine life.
Areas such as Mapanas, San Vicente, and Lavezares are particularly noted for their jewel-like waters and diverse underwater ecosystems, making them ideal spots for freediving, Berbon said.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
