Camiguin continues to prove why it deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list. Fresh from being recognized as the only Philippine destination included in The New York Times’ prestigious “52 Places to Go” list, the island once again showcased its world-class tourism potential by hosting the latest Domestic Tourism Invitational Program (DTIP) of the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.

Scuba tanks and gears are lined up poolside to prepare participants for the Open Water Dive Course

Held from July 19 to 25, the week-long program brought together 11 TPB-member tour operators and travel agents for an immersive Open Water Dive Course designed to strengthen the country’s growing reputation as one of Asia’s premier diving destinations.

Developing Better Dive Experiences for Filipino Travelers

The DTIP serves as a familiarization program that introduces tourism industry partners to emerging destinations and new travel experiences across the Philippines. Rather than simply visiting attractions, participants gain firsthand knowledge that enables them to create more compelling and marketable travel packages for their clients.

Confined water skills training

This year’s Camiguin edition focused on one of the country’s strongest tourism assets—its spectacular underwater world.

Throughout the training, participants completed both confined-water and open-water dive sessions, learning essential diving techniques, underwater safety procedures, and responsible marine tourism practices. The hands-on experience equips travel professionals with practical knowledge that will help them confidently promote diving adventures to both local and international travelers.

According to TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, the initiative reflects the agency’s commitment to expanding domestic tourism opportunities while encouraging more Filipinos to discover the country’s extraordinary marine destinations.

She noted that the program aims to strengthen dive tourism by giving industry partners the skills needed to develop quality dive experiences and inspire travelers to explore the Philippines’ rich underwater ecosystems.

A pair of clownfish glides through a sea anemone, offering a glimpse into Camiguin’s thriving underwater world

A green sea turtle rests in still, clear blue water

More Than Just Diving: Discovering Camiguin’s Natural Wonders

While diving served as the centerpiece of the program, participants also experienced many of Camiguin’s iconic attractions that continue to make the island one of the country’s most rewarding destinations.

The itinerary included visits to:

• Tuasan Falls
• Katibawasan Falls
• The historic Sunken Cemetery
• Guio-ob Church Ruins

These experiences showcased Camiguin’s unique blend of volcanic landscapes, rich history, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and cultural heritage, proving that the island offers memorable adventures both above and below the sea.

For many travel professionals, experiencing these attractions firsthand provides valuable insights that help them design more comprehensive itineraries for future visitors.

Building Stronger Tourism Partnerships

Beyond exploration and training, the program also created valuable business opportunities through business-to-business networking sessions.

TPB facilitated meetings between participating tour operators and local dive establishments, encouraging collaborations that could lead to new dive packages, specialized itineraries, and sustainable tourism partnerships.

These connections are expected to further strengthen Camiguin’s position within the Philippine dive tourism market while supporting local businesses that depend on visitor arrivals.

Participants pose for a photo with the Sunken Cemetery in the background

Camiguin’s Growing Global Recognition

Camiguin’s selection as the venue comes at a significant time for the island.

Its inclusion in The New York Times’ annual “52 Places to Go” list has placed the island on the global travel map, introducing international audiences to its volcanic landscapes, pristine waters, and laid-back island lifestyle.

Combined with initiatives like the DTIP, Camiguin continues to demonstrate its potential as both a leisure destination and a premier diving hotspot in the Philippines.

Looking Ahead

Following the successful Camiguin program, the Tourism Promotions Board will bring the next leg of the Domestic Tourism Invitational Program to Iloilo this September, where the spotlight will shift toward sustainable community-based tourism experiences.

Business-to-business session between TPB members and local dive tour operators

As the Philippines continues to diversify its tourism offerings, initiatives like the DTIP help ensure that emerging destinations receive greater exposure while equipping travel professionals with the knowledge and partnerships needed to promote authentic, sustainable, and unforgettable travel experiences.

For travelers, it also serves as another reminder that some of the country’s most incredible adventures are still waiting to be discovered—whether beneath the waves or across the islands’ rich cultural landscapes.

For more information about the TPB Membership Program, visit the TPB Membership Portal.

To discover the latest Philippine travel promotions and destinations, visit the Department of Tourism Philippines.

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