SAN LUIS, Batangas — Personnel of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 2 have officially earned their certifications as dive professionals after completing the Dive Instructor Training Course on August 5–14, 2025, and the Divemaster Training Course on August 11–20, 2025.

The training was conducted under the Philippine Rise Ocean Conservation Area (PROCA) Project in Fisheries Management Area 1 (FMA1), with funding support from the Zoological Society of London–Philippines (ZSL-Ph).

Dive Instructors honed strong teaching and communication skills to simplify complex concepts, conduct courses, manage student learning, and adapt to different needs. Meanwhile, Divemasters were trained to organize dive activities, assist instructors, guide divers, and ensure safety in diverse environments—skills vital in establishing marine protected areas, managing fish sanctuaries, and advancing conservation projects in FMA 1.

This milestone highlights BFAR’s and ZSL-Ph’s shared commitment to strengthening marine conservation and advancing sustainable fisheries management in the Philippine Rise. (reports from Jennah Domingo)