PHL Secures PHP 589M in DEMA Deals

The Philippines reinforced its global reputation as a premier dive destination with a successful showcase at the Diving Equipment and Marketing Association (DEMA) Show 2024 in Las Vegas, securing over PHP 589 million in business leads.

Represented by 16 Philippine-based dive companies under the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, the delegation highlighted the country’s rich marine biodiversity and unique dive experiences, drawing significant attention from industry leaders and travel professionals.

“Our presence at DEMA 2024 reflects our unwavering commitment to positioning the Philippines as the top choice for divers around the world,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. “By highlighting our rich marine ecosystems and world-class dive destinations, we aim to strengthen existing partnerships and create new opportunities for our dive industry to thrive.”

During the four-day event from Nov. 19-22, the Philippine delegation conducted 260 trade meetings, generating PHP 589,900,240.40 in business leads. Participating companies included prominent names such as Amun Ini Beach Resort and Spa, Atlantis Dive Resorts and Liveaboards, Discovery Fleet Philippines, and Sea Explorers Philippines, showcasing the diversity of the country’s dive tourism sector.

The Philippines has consistently earned global accolades, including being named Best Dive Destination in the Asia Pacific for the third consecutive year at the Travel Weekly Asia Readers’ Choice Awards 2024. It also holds titles such as World’s Leading Dive Destination (2023) and Asia’s Leading Dive Destination (2024) from the World Travel Awards.

“These recognitions are testaments to the Philippines’ thriving dive tourism industry and our ongoing commitment to sustainable tourism,” Nograles said. “Our active engagement in global events propels us toward greater success while ensuring the economic benefits reach local communities and that our marine ecosystems are preserved for future generations.”

As part of the Coral Triangle, the Philippines boasts over 10,000 square miles of coral reefs, 500 coral species, and 3,212 marine life species, offering unparalleled diving opportunities for enthusiasts of all skill levels.

Building on the momentum from DEMA, the Philippines will participate in the Diving and Resort Travel (DRT) Show in Hong Kong in December 2024. This follows the country’s successful hosting of the PADI Festival in Cebu earlier this month, further solidifying its place on the international dive tourism map.