dive industry: as bullish as ever

Amid news of a snow storm, some 15,000 divers and marine enthusiasts braved the cold and gathered at the Stephens Convention Center last Feb. 20-23 for the 39th Our World-Underwater Show. In this photo, the Philippine booth—with a head-turning collage of colorful above-land and underwater photos—commanded attention, capturing the interest of show attendees.

During the Our World Underwater Show, the Philippine booth, aside from its awesome display of Philippine underwater life, also offered a variety of information materials and tour packages from its partner dive tour operators and resort owners. In the photo, posing with Director Vernie Velarde-Morales (center) of the Philippine Department of Tourism – Chicago are (from left) Ken Scarbrough, President of Ultimate Dive Travel; Allan Nash, owner of El Galleon Resort in Puerto Galera, Philippines; underwater photographer and Women Divers Hall of Famer Lynn Funkhouser; and Ken Knezick, President of Island Dreams Travel.

The Philippine participation at the Our World – Underwater was marked by its two well-attended seminars and a film showing presented by three respected personalities in the dive industry: Stan Waterman, multi-awarded (read: 5 Emmy awards) film producer and director; Lynn Funkhouser, celebrated underwater photographer; and popular dive leader Michael Hoppe. In this photo are (from left) Philippine Tourism Director Vernie Velarde-Morales, Waterman, Allan Nash of El Galleon Resort/Asia Divers, and Funkhouser.

The Philippine team, led by Director Vernie Velarde-Morales (center), Miles Escares (3rd from right), and Gracee Tolentino (3rd from left) of the Philippine Department of Tourism – Chicago, takes a moment to pose during the recently concluded Our World Underwater Show. Also in this photo are (from left) Monica Morales, Jennifer Opena, Mica Morales, Jonnalyn Benolerao, and Maureen Mallari.