News
Diving with… Dave E. Santos, Buceo Anilao Beach and Dive Resort, Anilao, Philippines
In this ongoing series, we speak to the people who run dive centres, resorts and liveaboards from around the world about their businesses and the diving they have to offer…
What is your name?
Dave E. Santos
What is the name of your business?
Buceo Anilao Beach and Dive Resort
What is your role within the business?
I am part owner and the General Manager of Buceo Anilao.
How long has the business operated for?
We started the business March 15, 2014 so we are running 7 years.
How long have you dived for, and what qualification are you?
I have been diving for 34 years. I am a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and EFR Instructor.
What is your favorite type of diving?
I love diving on colourful reefs, but Muck dives are very exciting to me because of all the strange critters that can be seen.
If you could tell people one thing about your business (or maybe more!) to make them want to visit you what would it be?
If you guys love Nudibranchs and different critters, this is the place to go. We are known as the Nudibranch capital of the world for a reason! But that’s not the only thing we have here. With over 50 dive sites in our area you’re bound to see what you’re looking for! If you have a list of rare critter you want to check off your bucket list Anilao is the place to go!
What is your favorite dive in your location and why?
For corals I love Beatrice rock because of the colours and abundance of Marine life teaming over the reefs. Then for muck dives a site called Siem Siem is fantastic for so many kinds of critters. Depending on the season, things that can be seen are Ambon scorpion fish, weird Nudis, mimic octopus, wonderpus, blue ring octopus (we’ve seen up to 3 per dive!) and lots more!
What types of diving are available in your location?
We are becoming very popular for excellent muck dives and colourful reefs. If you want to Big fish this is really not the place to be but… we have seen the occasional whale shark…hehehe
What do you find most rewarding about your current role?
Besides being able to dive anytime I like, I would say the greatest reward in my current role is promoting our country to our local and international tourists so they can experience the beauty of the Philippines, specifically Anilao.
What is your favourite underwater creature?
I would say what really amazes me and gives me goose bumps is when I see a blue ringed octopus and special nudibranchs!
Are there any exciting changes / developments coming up in the near future?
Regarding the resort, we have added new rooms which will be ready to open soon. No need to turn down guests anymore due to lack of space! From only 17 room now we can fill 23 rooms with happy divers! New species of nudibranchs are also occasionally popping up needing to be named, maybe the next Nudi can be named after you!!
As a center what is the biggest problem you face at the moment?
Besides this Pandemic, the biggest problems we are facing now are actually the laws implemented by the LGU’s regarding when we can go out to dive because of weather, new rules regarding having to submit a manifest with the coast guard station every time we go out for our dives and the plan to phase out wooden hulled boats which have been used for so many years. The Philippines is known for these wooden boats with outriggers and are called “Bangkas”.
Is your center involved in any environmental work?
We do our part with environmental work. Even though the setting up of buoys should be done by our local government, since we pay Diver taxes and they have the funds, we set up some buoys ourselves to try to minimize anchoring on the dive sites. We also work with the LGUs to educate the locals on the proper way of disposing their trash, daily cleaning of our shorefront and we participate in clean ups organized by different NGU’s (Non-Government Units).
How do you see the SCUBA / Freediving / snorkeling industry overall? What changes would you make?
Over-all this industry is growing and like anything that grows we need to be cautious and try to avoid a negative impact on our environment. So we should do more projects to sustain the environment.
What would you say to our visitors to promote the diving you have to offer?
Macro, muck, and beautiful coral reefs! If any of these appeal to you then come on over and enjoy yourselves! You will not be disappointed with the biodiversity of our waters. From the most colourful marine life, coral reefs, and the resort itself! Buceo Anilao is the destination for a colourful vacation. Oh! Before I forget, we also offer blackwater dives! If you want to experience diving in the outer space then this is the new adventure for you!
Where can our visitors find out more about your business?
Buceo Anilao Beach and Dive Resort
Sitio Balanoy, San Teodoro, Mabini Batangas, Philippines, 4202
Email: contact@buceoanilao.com
Website: www.buceoanilao.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/buceoanilao
Instagram: www.instagram.com/buceoanilao
@buceoanilao #buceoanilao #nudibranchcapital #yellowresort
Gear News
Introducing the TR-80, IR-50 and CS-30 Regulators from DYNAMICNORD
Whether you are a beginner or a professional diver – with the three new main regulators from DYNAMICNORD, everyone will find their favourite regulator. They all look super stylish.
Excellent performance with the TR-80
Quality and performance are the be-all and end-all for regulators. It is not for nothing that the TR stands for Tec Reg. The innovative design of the TR-80 guarantees absolute reliability – even in ice-cold waters.
Perfect breathing effort at 0.8 J/l / certified for diving in waters below 10 degrees / structural design made of solid brass for best cold protection / membrane-compensated design with dry seal of the first stage / reduced exhalation effort thanks to optimized exhalation membrane and bubble deflector / adjustable Venturi (dive/predive) and adjustment knob for individual inhalation comfort / innovative design of the front cover prevents free-flow in strong currents or when diving with scooters / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 2 HP and 4 LP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
Amazing underwater adventures with the IR-50
The IR-50 is the top regulator for advanced and experienced divers. Natural breathing is the essence of this regulator.
Ideal breathing effort at 0.8 J/l /certified for diving in waters below 10 degrees / compensated membrane / adjustable venturi (dive/predive) and adjustment knob for individual inhalation comfort/ outlet valve and deflector for minimum exhalation effort and reduction of bubbles on the face / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 2 HP and 4 NP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
The Workhorse – our CS-30
For diving centres and diving beginners – the workhorse stands for strong construction, reliability and robustness. Perfect for your training.
Optimal breathing effort at 0.8 J/l /recommended for diving in waters above 10 degrees / non-compensated piston / adjustable venturi (dive/predive) / outlet valve and deflector for minimum exhalation effort and reduction of bubbles on the face / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 1 HP and 3 NP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
Octopus OP-30
The OP-30 is the ideal addition to all DYNAMICNORD regulators. It is identical in construction to the CS-30.
The TR-80, IR-50, CS-30 (DIN & INT) regulators and the Octopus OP-30 are available from DYNAMICNORD dealers and in the online store.
DYNAMICNORD – Your Outdoor Companion.
Marine Life & Conservation
Paul Watson Released as Denmark Blocks Japan’s Extradition Bid
Renowned anti-whaling activist Paul Watson has been released from custody in Greenland after spending five months in detention. Denmark’s Justice Ministry rejected Japan’s request for his extradition, citing insufficient guarantees that his time already served in custody would be credited against any potential sentence.
The 74-year-old Canadian-American was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, when his ship docked to refuel. His arrest was based on a 2012 Japanese warrant related to a 2010 encounter in Antarctic waters. Japan alleged Watson obstructed operations and caused damage to a whaling research ship during efforts to disrupt illegal whaling. Watson has consistently denied these claims, maintaining his commitment to marine conservation.
Denmark, which oversees extradition matters for Greenland, concluded that while the legal conditions for extradition were met, the lack of assurances from Japan regarding time-served credit made extradition untenable.
In a video shared by his foundation, Watson expressed gratitude and relief, saying, “After five months, it’s good to be out… and good to know they’re not sending me to Japan.” He added that the most difficult part of his time in custody was being separated from his two young sons.
Watson is a pioneering figure in marine conservation, known for founding the Captain Paul Watson Foundation in 2022 after decades of activism with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. His bold efforts to defend marine life have earned him widespread support, including from celebrities and conservationists. His work has also been featured in the acclaimed reality TV series Whale Wars.
Watson’s lawyer, Jonas Christoffersen, praised the decision, stating, “We are happy and relieved that Paul Watson is now free.” He added that Watson is eager to reunite with his family and continue his vital work.
The arrest occurred while Watson’s vessel, the M/Y John Paul DeJoria, was en route to the North Pacific with a team of 26 volunteers to intercept a Japanese whaling ship. His foundation described the arrest as politically motivated and emphasized that Watson’s actions were focused on ending illegal whaling practices.
Japan resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after leaving the International Whaling Commission, asserting that whale meat is a cultural tradition. Conservationists, however, continue to challenge these practices, highlighting their impact on marine ecosystems.
Despite the challenges, Watson remains steadfast in his mission to protect marine life and bring attention to whaling practices. His dedication to ocean conservation has made him a globally respected advocate for the environment.
-
News2 months ago
Iconic SS United States to become the World’s Largest Artificial Reef
-
News3 months ago
Book Review – 52 Assignments: Underwater Photography
-
Gear News3 months ago
DYNAMICNORD – New German diving brand enters the British market
-
News3 months ago
Exploring Cenote El Pit: A Diver’s Dream
-
Gear News3 months ago
Try BARE drysuits (and maybe even win one!) this Friday with Sea & Sea at North West Dive Fest
-
Marine Life & Conservation3 months ago
Book Review: Coral Triangle Cameos
-
Blogs2 months ago
Dive the Egyptian Red Sea this Autumn with Regaldive
-
News3 months ago
2024 Ocean Art Underwater Photo Competition Announced