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As the
new millennium emerges, the continuously growing local interest for
diving as a form of leisure & sports, and the improving financial
situation in the Philippines is giving the diving industry a new thrust
and vision. More and more young urban professionals, seniors and
teen-agers, both men and women are being enticed to learn the craft of
diving.
Diving
resorts, in coordination with travel agencies, hotels and other resorts
have linked up to further boost this sector in the tourism industry by
pooling resources and efforts. Lately, more and more visitors from all
over the world, particularly from the United States, Europe, Japan and
Australia have come to the Philippines to experience the country's
aquatic adventures.
The
Philippines' community of divers takes the craft of diving into a more "environmentally
conscious levels" and because of this, visible improvements are
being observed and destructive fishing methods are rarely practiced. The
tedious efforts have produced some of the best natural re-development
schemes that will eventually result in the survival of the fragile marine
eco-system in the country.
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The Philippines being a tropical
country is blessed with warm and pristine waters, soft corals, strong and
predictable currents. Various reef clusters damaged or completely
destroyed are rejuvenated and are rapidly regenerating.
The
Philippines rich cultural history and long trading links with Europe and
Mexico produced some fascinating treasure discoveries such sunken Spanish
galleon ships that houses various marine fauna and flora, as well as
various material treasures like gold coins and rare Oriental potteries.
The predictable weather conditions are also ideal for planned diving
incursions into the country.
The
Philippines dual seasons - dry and wet, are mild and mid-way into harsh
extremities, not to wet and not to dry during the summer months. The
climate is generally cool and humid at times, capped with sporadic brief
rain showers to thunderstorms and the Philippines typhoon season is at
its peak during the late and early part of the year. Average year-round
temperature is at 32 degrees Celsius or 89 degrees Fahrenheit. The cooler
seasons which peaks at around December to February is at an average of 23
degrees Celsius or 73 degrees Fahrenheit.
The
southern sections of the country are relatively spared by any extreme
typhoon conditions. Water temperatures from 25 degrees Celsius or 77
degrees Fahrenheit in the cool months to an extreme of 31 degrees Celsius
or 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the warm months. The country's spring
tides produce some of the strongest currents and novices should consider
the company of experienced and licensed divers or specifically an
instructor. High visibility rescue tubes or a flag will come in handy in
areas where strong currents are commonly experienced.
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