It has been a week now and I can still vividly remember how my recent trip to Balicasag Island ended. It was pitch black, the wind was howling like a danger is coming after us and the thick darker clouds were hovering above us like we can't escape it anymore. Our boatmen had to kill the motor of our boat so as not to hit the corals below - yes, it was low tide too. And though, our boat was moving, I can sense the tension in the sealed mouth of ours. This is not how I dreamed of my first-ever Balicasag Island trip, this is not a dream to start with, it was some sort of a nightmare.
To most of us when we heard of Balicasag, the first thing that comes right up in to our minds is its pristine white beach barely touched or abused by people. Considered as a Panglao, Bohol's pride, my recent trip to this paradise has almost turned differently if not for the determined Panglaoanon guides who tried all their best to bring back us to the Panglaoshore safe and sound.
On the second day of my coverage of Panglao International Dive Fiesta, we were invited by our host - the Panglao Tourism Board - to see and experience one of the hottest dive sites in the country, the Balicasag Island. Boasting with rich marine life that has been attracting foreign divers, Balicasag is actually in my must-visit list here in Bohol.
In an island surrounded by beautiful beaches with pristine white sands, Panglao, Bohol is now ready to take a different kind of challenge that aims to make their municipality a must-visit place in the world. World, say hello to Panglao International Dive Fiesta.
Boasting with thousands of unique underwater species, which can be seen in 16 famous diving sites off the pristine and captivating Bohol’s crown jewel, Panglao hosts the first ever International Dive Fiesta that is set to showcase the province’s well-kept and protected gems beneath its clear, blue seas.
Started today June 12, this 4-day event, which consists of diving training and seminars, search and rescue capability exercise, exhibit, underwater photo contest and food market among other will last until this Sunday, June 15.
