By Gabriela Baron
Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro has been named the “diving capital of the Philippines” for its unique marine biodiversity.
Members of the Sangguniang Bayan of the Municipality of Puerto Galera passed a resolution on Sept. 5 declaring the town as the country’s diving capital.
Situated within the Verde Island Passage, the epicenter of marine shore fish biodiversity, Puerto Galera boasts an underwater world with diverse marine life, making it a sought-after destination for divers around the world.
Puerto Galera also has over 32 world-class dive sites and home to 62 registered dive shops affiliated with major international diving organizations.
In 1976, UNESCO designated the town as UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve.
In 2005, Puerto Galera Bay received recognition from Paris-based Les Plus Belles Baies Du Mond or The Most Beautiful Bays in the World.
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