Camiguin's Marvelous Underwater World

Mahinog not only has Mantigue to be proud of – it also offers the wonderful sights at its Burias Shoal, San Roque, Benoni and Binaliwan Marine Sanctuaries. The gentle whale shark is known to, at times, pass along this area. In the southern municipalities of Guinsiliban and Sagay, well-protected marine sanctuaries offer more sights to gaze at and enjoy. Guinsiliban’s Cabuan Marine Sanctuary and South Poblacion Marine Sanctuary showcase more relaxing dives with their calm underwater currents.  Carefully swim and be mesmerized by the graceful butterfly fishes, beautiful damsels and fairy basslets amidst a back-drop of lively coral reef communities. In Cantaan, the multitude of giant clams, signature species of the MPA, sit, testament to nature’s bounty and the Guinsilibanons’ love for their marine environment. Sagay, towards the west, has two of the four marine protected areas to be proud of– Alangilan and Balite.  Like the people of Guinsiliban, Sagayanons take pride in the natural beauty of their marine sites.  Snorkelers and divers are never less than awed by the beauty of Sagay’s underwater. Alangilan and Balite are home to colourful corals and bountiful fishes. If not diving, guests can interact and chat with the locals over drinks and “pulutan” of squid, Sagay’s most famous product.

In Catarman, the trip is about relishing the story of the volcanic holocaust of 1871 and witnessing the spectacular rhythms of the underwater world, in the Sunken Cemetery,  Pasil Reef Marine Sanctuary, Catibac Marine Sanctuary, Lawigan Marine Sanctuary and Poblacion Marine Sanctuary. One will also be amazed with the underwater topography of Catarman’s best dive sites.  Think underwater canyons, caves and crevices hosting the gentle and graceful sea turtle, schooling snappers, large wrasses and parrot fishes. In Camiguin you may, shoot a few photos, or a full-length video, bring the images, and the memories, home.  And then you are coming back soon, because each visit is an experience all its own . . . in Camiguin’s well-preserved marine world.

source :camiguin.gov.ph

photos: johnnysdive.com