Apo Island in Negros as seen from above

In the middle of the azure sea, off the coast of Negros, comma like Apo Island is a favorite of many divers and snorkelers who often visit here for its world renowned community organized marine sanctuary. It has also been listed as one of the world’s best dive sites. It’s teeming with rich marine life, and as of now, there are about 650 species of fish and 400 species of corals documented around its waters.

This sanctuary was started in 1982 by Dr. Angel Alcala, of the Silliman University after convincing the townspeople of the barangay, after a three year dialog, to establish this reserve. From then on, the success of this project has been replicated in several other places across the country. Since this island’s marine sanctuary is well documented, it has been a model for showcases and exhibits like Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium’s Wild Reef exhibit program.

This image was photographed while aboard a Pal Express flight in transit from Manila-Dipolog.

HOW TO GET THERE: Apo Reef is one of the barangays of Dauin and is reached via a 30 minute boat ride from the barangay of Malatapay in Zamboanguita.