The Provincial Government of Cagayan (PGC), through the Cagayan Tourism Office (CTO) and in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Calayan, conducted diving spot identification and assessment, and implemented Basic Water Safety Training with the technical assistance and expertise of the Philippine Coast Guard – Special Operations Group Northeastern Luzon (PCG – SOG NELZN) in Calayan on April 17-23, 2024. In line with one of Governor Manuel Mamba’s objectives to promote tourism specifically diving and marine sports tourism in Cagayan, the CTO under the leadership of EnP. Jenifer Junio – Baquiran with the support of Calayan Local Chief Executive Joseph Llopis, tapped the PCG – SOG NELZN led by CG LCDR Benjamin Misador, Jr. to survey Calayan’s waters and conduct a weeklong Basic Water Safety Training. This is a crucial step in the preparation of both the island and island communities of Calayan for tourism development.

Assessment of Dive Spots

The PCG – SOG NELZN, together with the CTO team, went to Malangsi, Lusok Cave, Dibay, Dilam, and Magsidel to survey potential dive spots. They also assessed the current state of marine life, depth, potential hazards as well as discussed the recommended water activities that may be enjoyed by locals and tourists in Calayan.

Basic Water Safety Survival Training

Safety is non-negotiable and offering this training empowered locals in addressing any emergency that may arise from doing water activities. Boatswains and tour guides participated in the rigorous training where the fundamentals of swimming, breath holding, and water survival techniques were taught to them via dry and wet demonstration. A written exam was given towards the end of the training to ensure that participants understood the basics and theory of water safety and survival techniques.

Calayan Water Sports Tour Guides Association

With the first wave of successful participants came the formation of Cagayan’s first-ever water sports tour guides association, the Calayan Water Sports Tour Guides Association. The establishment of the said group has professionalized qualified locals as water sports tour guides adding not just another skill, but credibility to their existing profession. The CWSTGA is already working on drafting guidelines and policies with the help of the LGU-Calayan to further promote responsible tourism and inclusivity in the island.

The following are the elected officers of the above mentioned association:

President: Melvin Tagalicod

Vice-President: Reynaldo D. Suarez

Secretary: Ryan B. Gimo

Treasurer: Jun Balacua

Auditor: Mariano Duerme

The Cagayan Tourism Office turned over 14 sets of snorkeling gear and 14 pairs of aqua fins to support the newly minted water sports tour guides of Calayan. Endless Fun Cagayan rash guards and shirts were also provided to each participant.

The dive assessment and basic water safety training team were composed of:

Philippine Coast Guard – Special Operations Group Northeastern Luzon

CG LCDR Benjamin Misador, Jr.

CG CPO Jay Mariano

CG PO2 Jovic Mendoza

CG PO2 Joel Indong

CG PO3 Marlo Borleo

CG SN1 Leobert Payang

CG SN1 Rovin Ranier Tordil

CG SN2 Corwayne Cliff Tan

Cagayan Tourism Office

Honey Carmona, Planning Officer III

Jamae Villafuerte, Tourism Operations Assistant

Rodalyn Birung, Administrative Aide I

Local Government Unit of Calayan

Catherine Singun, Municipal Administrator

Benjielica Fadero, Tourism Operations Assistant

#Cagayan #CagayanProvince #EndlessFunCagayan #VisitCagayanPH #Calayan #LoveThePhilippines #TWOrismoSaLambak