Balicasag is definitely one of the best diving spots in the country. It was my first non-Batangas dive. The entire island could be explored by foot. Balicasag is a protected marine life sanctuary and it boasts of colorful corals and abundant underwater species.
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How to get there: Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific have flights daily to Tagbilaran. The resort can send a van to pick you up from the airport to Pangalao (approx 30 minutes from the airport to Panglao), and then pick you up (boat transfer) from Panglao to Balicasag (approx 45 minutes from Panglao to Balicasag). Make necessary arrangements before flying.
Best time to visit: All year round!
Things to do while on the island: Dive! Dive! Dive! The dive sites are beautiful and they have good dive masters. They have a dive shop where you can rent diving equipment if you do not want to being your own. Go around the island by foot, wait for the sunset, and take lots of pictures!
Contact Information:
Balicasag Island Dive Resort
5/F, Rm 520 DOT Bldg.
TM Kalaw St., Ermita, Manila.
Phones: +632 5242495 . 5242513
One More Thing: If you dive, please do not touch the corals or bring home seashells. Leave them where they belong. Just bring home lots of photos and good memories.
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Photos by Aileen Siroy (underwater photos owned by Imee Manal).
All rights reserved.
Balicasag, Philippines. June 2007.
