Although scuba diving in the Philippines is usually focused on exploring coral reefs, coral walls, underwater caves and observing very reach marine life and rare critter species, there are also other underwater attractions for those, who look for more thrilling experience.
The truth is that with over 1200 marine species and 400 of the world’s 500 corals species it is hard to focus on anything else, however it is still possible if you know how and where.
Shipwreck lovers and deep divers can also expect “more fun in the Philippines”!
Everybody knows “de gustibus non est disputandum”, however the list of top wrecks in the Philippines exists and describe the most attractive wrecks, according to many scuba divers.
They usually mention “The Irako” on Coron island, Palawan, the most famous location for wreck diving in the Philippines. Also “USS New York” or “El Capitan” at Subic Bay, north of Manila or “Pioneer” on Malapscua, north of Cebu island.
Objectively – really good choices with lots of history and plenty of marine species attracted by these sunk ships.
Unfortunately not so many mention other locations, which are probably less willing, but more thrilling. And, honestly speaking, quite interesting, too.
Diving on Bohol or, even better, diving on Panglao, ask for possibility to explore The Habagat shipwreck. It takes 5 minutes by boat to reach the site. The Habagat sank in the year 2000 and rest on a sandy seabed 35 meters under the water.
It hosts corals and shipwreck typical plants as well as schools of different fish. Tall Fin Batfish, Giant Angel Fish, Lion Fish, Groupers and the Harlequin Ghost Pipefish are common residents.
The wreck is not very big, but you will not get bored, as there are several small caves in the wall near the wreck to explore.
Before you get deep to the wreck you can admire a lot of corals as well as many reef fishes shoaling all around. The biodiversity is quite exceptional there and visibility usually excellent. That would be a good idea to take own underwater camera. A torch could be useful, too.
Diving on Siquijor you may want to see the wreck of Japanese landing craft. It rests near Larena, at 31 meters. It was sunk by Americans in 1945. It is largely intact and plenty of artifacts like glasses, bottles, bullets and other Japanese utensils are still there.
Over the time the shipwreck became covered with corals. Typical habitants are lionfish, moray eels and frogfish.
This site is challenging and only for experienced divers exploring dive sites around Siquijor.
