Celebrating the New Advanced Snorkeling Guides of Moalboal!
We’re excited to congratulate the newly graduated Advanced Snorkeling Guides who recently completed a professional training course tailored for Moalboal’s local snorkeling guides! This program was made possible through a collaborative effort between the Department of Tourism, the Municipality of Moalboal, Savedra Dive Center, and Cebu Fun Divers.
A Comprehensive Training Day
The full-day course on Oct. 26 was carefully designed to equip 49 local snorkeling guides with advanced skills, covering everything from essential knowledge to hands-on rescue techniques. The morning session focused on seminars and theories, where participants were introduced to:
- Equipment Basics and Usage
- Supervision and Control Techniques
- Environmental Awareness
- Hand Signals and Briefing Techniques
- Safety Procedures
- Drowning Prevention and Response
- Basic Diving Theory
The guides absorbed these foundational skills before heading out to put their knowledge into practice.
Skill Drills at White Beach Saavedra
Fueled by a hearty lunch, everyone gathered at White Beach Saavedra for the practical portion of the training, which included watermanship drills divided into three skill stations:
- Station One: Swimming Skills
Participants demonstrated their swimming endurance by completing swimming tests with and without aids and practiced water treading with hands above the water for an added challenge. - Station Two: Snorkeling Techniques
Here, guides worked on their snorkeling skills, including duck-diving, two-buddy system dives, snorkel blasts, and other essential techniques for safe and effective snorkeling. - Station Three: Rescue Scenarios
Safety is critical, and this station taught guides how to handle emergency situations. They practiced response techniques for panicking snorkelers, unresponsive individuals, and drowning victims, focusing on safe, effective rescues.
Rising to the Challenge Despite the Elements
As if the training wasn’t intense enough, the participants faced additional challenges from sudden downpours, stormy winds, and waves that added a realistic test to their skills. Despite the tough conditions, these guides showed determination and resilience, performing admirably throughout the day.
A big thank you to DOT 7 and the Municipality of Moalboal for organizing this impactful training. We’re thrilled to see Moalboal’s snorkeling guides step up with new skills, ready to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all who come to explore the beautiful waters of Moalboal!
