SLSU Bontoc Concludes Dive Training Program with PADI
As part of its continued commitment to marine education and environmental stewardship, Southern Leyte State University–Bontoc Campus, in partnership with Plongeurs du Monde (PDM), a Non-Governmental Organisation of International Solidarity, concluded its dive training program with a culmination ceremony held on May 16, 2025, at the SLSU Main Campus.
The event celebrated the successful completion of the Open Water to Advanced Open Water Diver Course – Batch V, with 14 individuals officially recognized as certified PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) divers. Among them was Instructor Angelica P. Gerong, a faculty member from the Bachelor of Science in Fisheries (BSFi) program, along with 13 students from the Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology (BSMB) program, namely: Rojhun M. Enide, Nante H. Bernales, Alfredo S. Tiempo, AJ Carlo M. Ajoc, Joshua A. Tello, Jelian Rose J. Tambis, and Jhon Manuel S. Aninipot.
The dive course, conducted from May 5 to 16, 2024, equipped the participants with critical skills in safe diving practices and marine ecosystem appreciation, reinforcing the university’s efforts in promoting environmental awareness and preparing students for field-based research in marine protected areas.
This milestone was made possible through the expertise and dedication of the PDM dive team, composed of Divemasters Jean Gaurin, Clément Gillet, and Guy Huau; Instructors Didier Pivin, Pascal Le Rouge, and Laurent Martin, who also served as the Team Leader. Communication support was provided by Aline Chamblant. Ryan P. Tomol, SLSU’s resident Divemaster, also contributed significantly to the success of the program.
“The partnership between SLSU–Bontoc and PDM continues to empower future marine professionals and foster a deeper understanding of ocean conservation among youth in Southern Leyte,” Dr. Gladys L. Pascual shared.
This initiative aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 14: Life Below Water, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
