WANDERLUST...

of 'charismatic species' for marine wildlife interaction, rich coral reefs for scuba diving, strong waves for surfing and skimboarding, and Pujada, Mayo and Balete Bays are officially on the list of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World," said Assistant Secretary Maria Rica C. Bueno.

She also made mention of the possibility of Mati City in becoming a marine research center.

The two-day training was participated by DOT Mindanao regional offices, representatives from the provincial government of Davao Oriental, Department of Agriculture, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Mati City Planning and Development Office, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, academe, fisherfolks, local boat operators, tour guides, dive masters, and resort and accommodation owners.

Resource speakers include the founder of the Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines Dr. AA Yaptinchay, marine mammal specialist Dr. Teri Aquino, Large Marine Vertebrates Research

Institute Philippines project leader Ariana Agustines, Leynon Jay M. Bargamento and Gil Bigcas of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Xl, JC Jan Cueto of the DOT Tourism Standards and Regulations office, and Atty Jeri Grantoza, who discussed policies on the conduct of marine wildlife in tourism.

The DOT Xl team, led by regional director Tanya Rabat Tan, hosted and managed the said program.