The Philippines reaffirmed its status as a premier global dive destination, generating P595.24 million in business leads during its participation in the Diving Equipment and Marketing Association (DEMA) Show 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Nov. 19 to 22, 2024.

“Generating over half a billion pesos in business leads at DEMA 2024 highlights the increasing global demand for Philippine dive destinations. Our participation at this premier event not only strengthens existing relationships but also opens doors for new opportunities that will help expand our dive tourism industry,” said Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) chief operating officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles.

Backed by the TPB, 16 Philippine-based dive companies showcased the country’s world-class marine biodiversity and diving experiences.

This year’s sales leads were secured through 260 trade meetings held throughout the four-day event.

The delegation featured 16 dive companies, including renowned names such as Amun Ini Beach Resort and Spa, Atlantis Dive Resorts and Liveaboards and Sea Explorers Philippines, among others.

The delegation represents the diversity and strength of the Philippine dive industry, which includes luxury resorts, specialized liveaboard operators and further solidifying the country’s position as a top choice for diving enthusiasts worldwide.

The country was named Best Dive Destination in the Asia Pacific at the Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 for the third consecutive year.

The Philippines also garnered global acclaim as the World’s Leading Dive Destination (2023) and Asia’s Leading Dive Destination (2024) from the World Travel Awards.

“Our active participation in global events continues to propel us forward, ensuring that our local communities benefit from sustainable tourism, while preserving our unique marine ecosystems for future generations,” Nograles said.

The Philippines is home to some of the world’s most biodiverse underwater ecosystems, including over 10,000 square miles of coral reefs and 3,212 marine species.

The country successfully hosted the PADI Festival in Cebu, drawing divers and industry professionals from around the globe in November.

The Philippines will continue to showcase its premier dive destinations at the Diving and Resort Travel (DRT) Show in Hong Kong from Dec. 13 to 15, 2024, reinforcing its place as a global leader in dive tourism.