DITO Philippines ? a Forum for Growth

Major dive industry Betty Sarmiento of Aquaventure, John Wee of Scuba World,

Allan Nash of Asia Divers, Ralph Espino of Dive Buddies, David Choy of Tristar and

Heneage Mitchell of the Philippine Diver magazine joined forces recently to create

the Dive Industry Trade Organisation Philippines (DITO Philippines).

The non-profit association was set up to provide a forum for the development and

promotion of Dive Travel throughout the Philippines. For years the Philippines has

lagged behind other SE Asian countries in promoting itself as a superior diving

destination, despite the massive investment in dedicated diving and resort

infrastructure, its thrilling dive travel opportunities and the explosive growth of

equipment wholesale and retail opportunities.

So-called ?regional? dive trade shows have consistently failed to recognise the

Philippines as a major player in the region for a variety of reasons, including

self-interest and a lack of local government support for the diving industry. This

has created a situation of concern for many dive professionals in the country who

have been promoting their regional products and services world-wide without the

benefit of cohesive national support.

DITO Philippines believes that dive travel growth is essential to maintain the

health of the local dive industry in the Philippines. After all, the more divers that

visit the country, the more local dive centers will require equipment and related

services. With over 20,000 PADI certifications registered in the Philippines every

year and hundreds of dive centers scattered throughout the archipelago, It is

obvious that the Philippines has already got one of the strongest and most

dynamic dive industries in Asia. DITO believes the time has come to tell the world,

especially Dive Trade Show organisers, Dive Travel Specialists, Diving Media and

other interested parties, that the Philippines is Asia?s best diving destination, bar

none!

To help dive travel organisers large and small to more effectively understand the

realities and benefits of doing business in the Philippines, it is envisioned that DITO

Philippines will form the core group for the planning and implementation of an

effective Dive Travel Show for the Philippines in due time.

Accredited Dive and Resort Associations throughout the Philippines are invited to

join DITO Philippines to participate in promoting their respective areas of interest.

Interested to find out more? Want to know how you can help DITO to help you?

Meetings are held monthly, contact any of the DITO members mentioned above for

more info.