PH woos Chinese divers in Beijing expo
Despite continuing tensions between the two countries, the Philippines on Sunday said it is looking to invite Chinese divers and tour operators to partner with local businesses in order to develop sustainable dive products and experiences.
In a statement, the Philippine Embassy in China said the country recently attended the Diving Resort and Travel Show Expo, considered Asia’s largest international dive expo, held on Aug. 8 to 10 at the China National Convention Center in Beijing.
The country’s delegation was led by the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Promotions Board.
It also included representatives of major airlines, diving suppliers and resorts across the Philippines, including those from emerging diving destinations such as Romblon, Ticao Island and Camiguin.
The embassy said a “key highlight” of the event was the Philippine Dive Night in which Chinese diving tour operators and agencies as well as Philippine resorts and airlines were able to engage in a “business matchmaking session.”
Dive tourism market
Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime FlorCruz emphasized the country’s commitment to marine biodiversity conservation and awareness as he invited Chinese divers and tour operators to partner with Philippine organizations in developing sustainable dive products and services.
“The country remains dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism and fostering strong people-to-people exchanges through partnerships that protect its marine environment,” FlorCruz said.
According to the embassy, the Philippines is “uniquely positioned” to take advantage of the rapidly growing dive tourism market in China, which it noted was “currently the fastest-growing in the world.”
During the expo, the Philippines received the prestigious Island Charm award for its “strong presence and exceptional offerings” in the diving market.
Diving destination
The embassy said this solidified the country’s position as “a premier global diving destination” and “signals a promising future for its tourism sector.”
It noted that Manila will be the next city to host the Diving Resort and Travel Show Expo this September.
The statement of the Philippine Embassy comes amid continuing tensions between the country and China over the West Philippine Sea.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) maintained that the country bears no responsibility for the collision last week of Chinese vessels at Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal, which “unlawfully interfered” with a routine humanitarian mission led by the Philippine Coast Guard.
