TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte — Beneath the clear waters off Barangay Madaum, a remarkable gathering of ocean enthusiasts, environmental advocates, and community partners came together on June 6, 2026, proving that recreation and conservation can go hand in hand.
The inaugural SEASID Tagum: Dive with Purpose transformed a simple freediving activity into a meaningful environmental campaign aimed at protecting and restoring the city’s rich marine ecosystem.
Held at Hijo Resorts, the pioneering event brought together professional freedivers and diving enthusiasts from various diving communities across the Davao Region. More than showcasing the beauty hidden beneath Tagum City’s waters, the activity highlighted the urgent need to strengthen marine conservation efforts, particularly the protection and expansion of coral reefs and seagrass habitats that serve as vital nurseries for marine life.
Organizers described the event as more than a recreational gathering. It was a call to action for environmental stewardship, encouraging participants and the wider community to appreciate the value of marine resources and take an active role in preserving them for future generations.
A unique feature of SEASID Tagum was its fundraising component, which directly linked participation to conservation outcomes. Organized by Hijo Resources Corporation under the Tuason Development Foundation, Inc., through the leadership of The Trinity Project, the initiative generated support for the construction of additional artificial coral reefs.
The funds raised during the event will be used to create and install artificial coral reef structures within Tagum City’s Marine Protected Area (MPA). Notably, the installation will be carried out by the participants themselves, allowing divers to contribute directly to habitat restoration efforts and become active partners in the city’s marine conservation program.
Artificial coral reefs play a crucial role in marine ecosystem rehabilitation. They provide shelter and breeding grounds for fish and other marine organisms, helping increase biodiversity while supporting sustainable fisheries and healthier coastal environments.
The success of the event was made possible through a strong multi-sectoral partnership involving the Local Government of Tagum City, particularly the City Environment and Natural Resources Office and the City Health Office. They were joined by the Philippine Coast Guard, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Carabao Dive Center, and a team of diving advocates led by respected freediving instructor Jok Sumi-og.
The collaboration demonstrated how government agencies, private organizations, environmental groups, and the diving community can work together toward a shared goal of environmental sustainability.
Beyond conservation, SEASID Tagum also opened doors for eco-tourism development. Participants were able to experience firsthand the underwater attractions of Tagum City, revealing the area’s potential as an emerging freediving destination in Mindanao.
With its thriving marine ecosystem, accessible dive sites, and growing environmental initiatives, Tagum City is steadily positioning itself as a promising location for marine tourism—an opportunity that can generate economic benefits while encouraging responsible stewardship of natural resources.
As divers surfaced from the waters of Madaum, they carried with them more than memorable underwater experiences. They emerged with a deeper understanding of the responsibility that comes with enjoying the ocean and a renewed commitment to protecting it.
The success of the first-ever SEASID Tagum serves as a powerful reminder that conservation efforts are most effective when communities are actively engaged. Through a combination of adventure, education, and environmental action, the event demonstrated that every dive can become a step toward safeguarding the seas.
For Tagum City, SEASID is more than just a diving event—it is the beginning of a movement that seeks to transform ocean appreciation into concrete action, ensuring that the city’s marine treasures continue to thrive for generations to come.