Conservation authorities on the central Philippine island of Panglao are investigating a fresh act of underwater vandalism after divers discovered the words “JUST DIVE” etched into a large plate coral in the protected waters of Napaling Reef. The incident, first reported by the diving industry publication Divernet, has drawn sharp rebukes from local officials who had already been grappling with a similar case months earlier.
Governor Erico Aris Aumentado, who leads the province covering Panglao, confirmed the discovery and condemned the act, saying that those responsible will face legal consequences. “Yet more corals being vandalized by irresponsible people — seems like there are some who enjoy destroying our natural resources or not understanding our tourism needs,” Aumentado said, according to Divernet. He added that violators of conservation laws “will be punished, including dive-shops and guides.”
The latest graffiti was found on a healthy plate coral in an area known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. The anonymous diver who spotted the carving reported it directly to the governor’s office, triggering an official response. This is not the first time the region’s reefs have been targeted. In September 2024, authorities discovered names such as “Mojak” and “Min” carved into another colony of plate coral, prompting Aumentado to form a task force dedicated to finding the culprits. A reward of 50,000 pesos was offered for information leading to an arrest.
According to Divernet, a local snorkel guide eventually admitted responsibility for the 2024 incident, saying that a female tourist had asked him to carve her name into the coral. That admission, however, did not stop further damage. The recurrence of such vandalism raises questions about the effectiveness of current enforcement and the need for stronger deterrents.
Why the Reef Matters
Napaling Reef is part of the Coral Triangle, a region recognized globally for its marine biodiversity. Plate corals, which can live for centuries, are particularly vulnerable to physical damage. Carving into their living tissue can expose them to disease and slow their growth, threatening the reef’s health and the tourism economy that depends on it. Local officials have stressed that the reef is a shared resource, and its protection is vital for both ecological and economic reasons.
The governor’s task force, established after the first incident, remains active. While the latest vandal has not yet been identified, authorities are appealing to the public for information. The case underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing tourism with conservation in popular dive destinations.
As investigations continue, divers and residents are urged to report any suspicious activity. The incident serves as a reminder that even seemingly small acts of vandalism can have lasting impacts on fragile marine ecosystems.
