The Davao Dive Expo 2024, slated on July 5-7, will highlight the contributions of advocates and conservation groups in promoting the protection and promotion of marine life, an official from the Department of Tourism in Davao Region (DOT-11) said Wednesday.

“This year’s Davao Dive Expo is entering its third edition, and we are shifting our focus to ocean advocacy. Negative impacts, often stemming from human activities, have significant effects on both land and the oceans.” DOT-11 regional director Tanya Rabat-Tan said in a press briefing here.

Rabat said they would also highlight efforts made by different organizations to protect marine life, while emphasizing that tourism can be a viable alternative to extractive industries.

“When done properly, it can be good, especially for the communities. So this time, we will be highlighting this, the advocacies,” she said, adding that they will launch another dive site in Mabini, Davao de Oro, for this year’s dive expo.

”Last year, we launched it in Governor Generoso town in Davao Oriental, and this time around, we will be launching the Mabini dive site. Also, the group’s conservation efforts will focus there,” Tan added.

She said the Davao Dive Expo – anchored on the tagline “Dive with a Purpose” – aims to serve as an inspiration for other local government units (LGUs) not only within the Davao Region but also across the entire country.

The three-day expo will allow attendees to explore the region’s different dive destinations, including the Island Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte, Mati City, Davao Oriental, and Mabini, Davao de Oro. (PNA)