The Department of Tourism (DOT) is ramping up efforts to position Sogod Bay in Southern Leyte as a rising global dive destination after showcasing its underwater attractions at Salon de la Plongée 2026, one of the world’s biggest diving expos, held from Jan. 8 to 11 at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles.

DOT Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes said in a press statement on Monday that the international exhibition gave the region a strategic platform to directly engage the global dive market and attract more foreign dive tourists.

“This is the second time that we joined Salon de la Plongée. Our main goal is to expand our reach into the dive market and ultimately increase arrivals of dive enthusiasts,” she said.

Key dive stakeholders from Eastern Visayas also participated in the event, including representatives of Sogod Bay Scuba Resort and Peter’s Dive Resort, who engaged with visitors and provided firsthand information on the region’s unique underwater attractions.

Tiopes explained that Sogod Bay’s participation underscores the region’s commitment to developing sustainable and high-quality dive tourism, while positioning the destination as a must-visit destination within the Philippines’ diverse marine landscape.

The promotion was conducted through the DOT Philippines Pavilion, where Sogod Bay’s marine biodiversity, coral reefs and rich macro life were highlighted.

The DOT expressed optimism that the exposure in Paris will translate into increased international arrivals and stronger recognition of Sogod Bay as one of the Philippines’ next top dive hotspots. (PNA)