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A barrio of Mabini, Batangas, is one of the best diving areas in Luzon. Not only does the
infrastructure to service divers exist, by way of accommodations, equipment, and boats; the
townspeople have made it a point to protect the environment of their reefs. As a result some of
the most intricate and complex marine eco-systems are found in this region.
Most diving consists of coral slopes, steeps, drop-offs and shallow coral gardens inter-twined
with sandy patches. Fish and coral life is quite abundant. Macrophotography is highly suggested,
as it can be very rewarding. Currents can be quite strong in certain areas and it is best to
consult the tide tables and charts. SCUBA WORLD supplies all the diving equipment at this resort.
Aqua sports facilities such as sailboards, hobie cats, hobie floats, and kayaks are also available
for rent.Masks, snorkels, fins, boots and wetsuits are also available.
Dive Site in Anilao
CATHEDRAL
A marine sanctuary and considered as the best known feeding station in Anilao. Approximately 23 meters
off Bagalangit Point lay two large mounds that looks life roofless underwater amphitheater with a
cross in between. Former President Fidel Ramos planted it in 1983. It used to be barren but it is now
fully overgrown with corals. Moorish idols, parrotfish and other reef fish dwells in these areas.
SOMBRERO ISLAND
This island resembles a hat underwater. It is shallow wall of about 30 meters with good concentration of corals.
BAJURA
Diving consists of slopes, small drop-offs, overhangs and a swimthrough. Shoals of triggerfish, jacks and surgeons
swim by on a regular basis and Anthias are abundant. Currents are generally calm.
SEPOK
One of the lovely dive sites with a nice coral gardens and vertical wall with a wide variety of marine life. It
is normally an easy dive. The shallow part teems with a profusion of small reef fish while the wall has the
bigger fish and pelagic visitors.
MAPATING (Shark Cave)
An open reef and advisable only for experienced divers only, which requires local divemaster assistance. The
submerged rock is surrounded by a fairly shallow area, which ends in a series of drop-offs descending to about
20 meters or more. There is a great variety of marine life including sharks and pelagic fish. Current is strong
most of the time.
LAYAG-LAYAG
There is an extensive coral formation on the shallow steep slope. Currents are extremely strong, so choice of
slack water and neap tides are necessary. A recommended area for experienced divers. The coral teems with
marine life and often has good visibility.
TWIN ROCKS
This is like a gallery of feather stars and small school of barracuda or squid are often seen. The remains of a
capsized barge lie here on a gradual slope, which are now covered with sponges, algae, hydroids and reef fish.
CULEBRA (BONITO) ISLAND & MALAHIBONG MANOK ISLAND
A marine sanctuary that has patches of coral heads on sandy slopes. Currents are very fierce. Shallow ledges with
a good concentration of soft and hard corals surround both islands. Malajibomanoc has an underwater hot springs
that sends streams of bubbles from 13 meters to the surface. Whenever Taal Volcano increases activity, this area
does also. Fish life is abundant in this area.
LIGPO ISLAND
The island sits on the west side of Ligpo Point. It is possible to circumnavigate the entire landmass in just one
dive. Small reef fish and occasional pelagic fish emerge from nearby depths. Corals of different types and huge
gorgonians abound the area. An ideal spot for night dive with lots of flatworms, nudibranchs, moray eel’s
catfish and squid.
TRAVEL BRIEF
Anilao is about 2 ½ - 3 hours drive from Manila. Airport transfers via private cars and vans can be arranged directly
from international airport directly to Anilao. Public buses are also available to Batangas City. From there,
you will have to take a jeepney ride to the town of Anilao (Mabini) or hire a banca to get to the resorts.
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