Photos courtesy of Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado The Provincial Government of Bohol is still on its crackdown against tourists and dive guides who were involved in the damage of coral reefs near the waters of Virgin Island in Panglao.

This stemmed from a complaint by dive enthusiasts after they took photos of the reefs that were apparently vandalized.

It bore writings of names such as “Mojak” and “Min,” including some Korean characters.

Governor Aris Aumentado was able to obtain a vlog of some tourists showing that they touched the reefs.

“Atong gipaningkamutan nga mapanalipdan ug mamintinar kay talagsaon nga kalikopan, gipanamastamasan (We tried our best to protect and maintain the reefs, because this is a rare sight in the environment but it was destroyed),” he said.

According to Aumentado, they already obtained information about the boatman and the dive guide.

“Naa natay information sa boatman ug tour guides sa maong video. Rest assured naay proper investigation para ani. (We already have information about the boatman and tour guide in the video. Rest assured we have proper investigation for this),” he said. 

The provincial government is now mulling to close off the area for rehabilitation, pending investigation as well.

It also reiterated the requirement of an orientation and seminar for visitors before they participate in diving activities.

Those who will skip this important part in the process will be sanctioned, including dive shops and guides.

Visitors who will be found guilty of damaging corals will also face charges for violating environmental laws.

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