What’s the best way to promote scuba diving in an area not yet well-known for underwater attractions? Simple, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Office 10, which covers such cities as Cagayan de Oro and Gingoog: Unleash a bunch of enthusiastic underwater photographers to capture what can be seen beneath the waves in a photo “shoot-out”— with eye-popping results. That’s what happened during the third NorthMin Dive Festival in Misamis Oriental (MisOr), held last Sept. 6 to Sept. 10 and featuring other activities such as a Scubasurero coastal cleanup and a free-diving clinic—serendipitously, held on the same day, Sept. 7, that the Philippines was awarded as Asia’s Leading Dive Destination for the fifth time by the World Travel Awards 2023.

Honasan, A. B. (2023, October 1). There's a lot to dive for in Misamis Oriental. Philippine Daily Inquirer, pp. C1, C4.