Freedivers in Moalboal must follow stricter safety requirements and pay a standardized P1,100 fee under a new municipal ordinance regulating recreational and leisure dives.
Freediving Ordinance No. 005-2026 sets limits on the number of guests a guide can supervise, requires a buddy system and establishes a standard rate for the activity.
Under the rules, one instructor or freedive guide may supervise a maximum of two guests. Groups exceeding two participants must have a Master Freediver or an entry-level certified assistant accompanying the activity.
The requirements apply to recreational and leisure freediving activities in the municipality, including those involving guests without freediving certifications.
The ordinance also requires participants to have designated buddies to help promote safety while underwater.
Moalboal has set a standard rate of P1,100 per guest, covering the guide’s services and use of a buoy, which the ordinance identifies as essential safety equipment.
The rate does not include optional services such as photo and video editing or color grading.
Rentals of additional equipment, including long fins and masks, will also be charged separately.
Freedivers must also pay an environmental user’s fee of P100 per guest for every dive. Payment must be made before the activity begins.
The municipality will collect the fee through designated booths at Little Corner and Veranda, as well as other collection points it may establish.
The environmental fee is intended to support environmental management in Moalboal, which is known for its marine attractions and freediving activities.
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