07 March 2017 BOLOGNA, ITALY — The Philippines made a splash at the European Dive (EUDI) Show 2017 at the Exhibition Center of Bologna, Italy from March 03 to 05 as it showcased countless dive sites dotting the archipelago.

This was the first time for the Philippines through the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) to participate in Italy’s premier scuba diving event.

"We are excited to be part of this great event. Our delegation is ready to present our diving products, which are simply incredible. In addition to being in the center of the Coral Triangle, the Philippines offer a range of sites that can meet the diverse needs and experiences of both amateur and professional divers,” Undersecretary Katherine de Castro in an interview with Travel Quotidiano. Undersecretary de Castro led the Philippine delegation during the event.  She currentlyheads the DOT’s Office of Public Affairs, Communications, and Special Projects.

Italy is a key market for diving tourism in the Philippines. Most Italians who travel to the country list diving as their primary reason for going to the Philippines. With the Italian market being composed of about 250,000 divers, and with 22 percent joining in EUDI, participating in the niche travel market trade show is an important step in increasing Italian visitor numbers to the Philippines which number a mere 25,945 visitors in 2016 per DOT.

Consul General Mauro met with Undersecretary de Castro and the rest of the Philippine delegation to discuss further other activities that could raise the profile of Italian tourism to the Philippines. END