Overview

Reef Buddy Philippines is a marine conservation programme in Dauin, Negros Oriental — the macro diving capital of the Philippines and heart of the Coral Triangle. Volunteers join our active Reef Check EcoDiver survey team, contributing real data to the global database used by marine park managers, national governments, and UN agencies. This is not eco-tourism with a conservation label. This is field science with a globally standardised methodology, in one of the most biodiverse marine environments on Earth.

Testimonial

I’ve loved it so much here that what started as an 8 week trip has turned into an 18 week trip. Yesterday, I completed the program I came for and am now staying on as an intern to continue learning more about the dive industry and to keep working with this amazing team. They have instilled in me the same passion that they have for the underwater world, and they are also fantastic dive instructors.
Shanna Clark – 8 week Eco Divemaster programme

What will you learn?

Reef Check survey methodology — the globally standardised protocol behind peer-reviewed reef research, with your data going straight into the Reef Check Foundation database.
a sound understanding of marine ecosystems
hands on experience in coral reef restoration techniques
identification of various coral, fish and benthic species
understand the risks and planning considerations for working with apex predators and sharks
an unforgettable Philippine diving experience

Highlights

Philippine diving is some of the best in the world. So what better place to learn to dive than in the warm, crystal clear waters of the Philippines, the heart of the Coral Triangle? You will also play a full and active part in our ethical coral reef restoration and marine conservation projects. New to diving or an experienced diver, we have something to suit everyone, from beginner to becoming a dive professional.

Location

Dauin is on the island of Negros in the Visayas central region of the Philippines. The town is a short ride to the university city of Dumaguete and an hours flight from Manila. Dauin is surrounded by beautiful beaches of golden and volcanic black sands. Coral reefs, rich in macro life run the entire coastline. It is also close to the famous Apo Island, home to the Philippines oldest marine sanctuary – which we cannot dive in until 2031!

Free Time

We’re right at the foot of Mount Talinis, a sleeping volcano (which has not erupted in over 1000 years), but means we have plenty of waterfalls and geo-thermal hot springs to take in. Trips and hikes into the bush are available, as well as trips into the city or over to Siquijor – the Magic Island – with legends of the use of a local voodoo black magic. If those don’t appeal, our host resort, Sierra Resort Dauin has two pools, pool table and a well-stocked bar. They also have weekly Karaoke nights – which are absolutely part of the culture here…