13 January 2025. The Philippine Ambassador to France joins the DOT, TIEZA, and Congressional delegation at the Philippine pavilion.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) led the Philippines' participation at the Salon International de la Plongée Sous-Marine, held at Parc des Expositions, Pavillon 4, in Paris from 9-12 January 2025. This event is the only one in France that brings together a diverse array of diving industry professionals, including associations, boats, diving centers, insurance providers, manufacturers, distributors, media, tourism offices, training organizations, dive operators, and travel agents. This year's edition emphasized ocean protection, in anticipation of France hosting the UN Oceans Conference in Nice later this year. 
Dir. Zeny Pallugna, DOT’s lead for Market Development, welcomes H.E. Junever Mahilum-West.
The Philippine pavilion featured a striking arch under the theme "Dive Philippines." This marked the country’s return to the global water sports exposition, reaffirming its position as one of the world’s top diving destinations. The pavilion showcased twelve Philippine-based tour operators, as well as kiosks for DOT and Air France. 
Diving enthusiasts visit and inquire about the tour packages with participating operators.
Following the resumption of Air France’s direct flight between Paris and Manila in December 2024, after a two-decade absence, the expo provided an ideal platform to highlight the Philippines' marine tourism offerings to French tourists, particularly as the summer season approaches. With over 350,000 scuba divers in France, 10% of whom travel abroad for diving with tour operators, the Philippines’ participation capitalized on the growing European interest in tropical marine leisure. 
Supporting the Philippines’ participation are members of the House of Representatives, i.e., Hon. Maria Vanessa C. Aumentado and Hon. Kristine Alexie B. Tutor of Bohol, Hon. Rachel Marguerite B. Del Mar of Cebu City, and Hon. Josefina B. Tallado of Camarines Norte along with Governor Erico Aristotle C. Aumentado of Bohol and Vice Mayor Christopher B. Tutor of Candijay, Bohol.
The Philippines' participation at the fair secured notable investment and product development opportunities, driven by DOT's strategic engagement with clients and stakeholders.
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