PHIDEX 2019 Report
The first Philippine International Dive Expo (PHIDEX) hosted by the Philippine Department of Tourism (PDOT) was held from September 20-22, 2019 at the seaside complex of Conrad Manila. Underwater360 is proud to be the official media partner for PHIDEX.
PHIDEX is the go-to hub for opportunities in Philippine dive tourism. Over 4,000 dive travel and trade stakeholders gathered to network, exchange ideas and collaborate at PHIDEX 2019, including tourism organisations, equipment manufacturers, distinguished VIPs, leaders, and influencers from across the globe such as renowned underwater photographers and videographers, scientists and marine conservationists from 40 countries.
Trade visitors and the public were treated to an exciting array of presentations by more than 20 international speakers and enjoyed various ocean-themed activities such as panel discussions, dive conferences, trade seminars, film screenings, lucky draws, and more. Close to 40 renowned local and international dive brands were exhibiting at this inaugural event.
DAY ONE (FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20)
PHIDEX PRESS CONFERENCE
The show kicked off on September 20, at 3pm, with a press conference officiated by Benito C. Bengzon,
Jr., Undersecretary for Tourism Development, Department of Tourism; Rowena Sorioso, OIC Executive and Head of the DOT Office of Product and Market Development’s Dive Team; Bo Mancao, award-winning underwater photographer and Commissioner of the Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving; and Lynn Funkhouser, an internationally-published photographer, author, lecturer, and environmentalist who has been living in the Philippines since 1975.
The press conference unveiled dive tourism plans for the coming years in the Philippines, emphasising the role of PHIDEX as a platform to promote emerging destinations in the country and provide an opportunity to showcase sustainable tourism efforts under forward-thinking leadership. While there have been similar dive events in the Philippines, PHIDEX is the first show organised by the government, focusing on B2B trade meetings, complemented by an impressive list of local and international speakers, including Guinness World Record holders, and featuring underwater film premieres, trade seminars, and more.
PHIDEX OPENING CEREMONY
The show’s official opening commenced at 4pm with a braided paper ribbon untying ceremony symbolising the theme of a plastic-free ocean. The ceremony was graced by Senator Nancy Binay, Undersecretary Benito C. Bengzon, Jr., Undersecretary Edwin Enrile, Assistant Secretary Verna Buensuceso, Assistant Secretary Roberto Alabado III, and Lynn Funkhouser, member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame. This was followed by a dynamic, modern cultural performance against a backdrop of emerging dive destinations and sustainable lifestyle.
The heartwarming opening speeches were led by Senator Nancy Binay; Undersecretary Benito C. Bengzon, Jr.; Undersecretary Edwin Enrile;
Assistant Secretary Verna Buensuceso; Assistant Secretary Roberto Alabado III; Assistant Secretary
Leila Rivera; Rowena Sorioso, Head for Dive Product and Market Development and OIC; Marie Venus Tan, Tourism Promotion Board COO; Bo Mancao, PCSSD Commissioner; and Attu Bienvenido Chy, General Manager of Phil Retirement Agency. The VIPs who spoke on stage included Lynn Funkhouser, member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame; Conny Jeppson, PADI Regional Manager in the Philippines; and Mark de Burgh, MARES/SSI General Manager.