PADI Women’s Dive Day 2025 at Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort

Each year, divers around the world come together to celebrate a movement that goes beyond just exploring the ocean depths, PADI Women’s Dive Day. Launched in 2015, this global initiative began as a way to encourage more women to try diving and create a more inclusive community underwater. Over the years, it has transformed into a powerful day of action, awareness, and celebration of women divers who are actively contributing to ocean conservation. In 2025, this spirit was proudly brought to life in the Philippines through PADI Women’s Dive Day at Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort.

Pushing Through with Purpose at Casalay Boutique Villas

Set against the lush, tropical backdrop of Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, Casalay Boutique Villas & Dive Resort was the perfect host for this year’s celebration. While the original plan hoped for clear skies and calm seas, Mother Nature had other things in store. The day was met with continuous downpour, poor visibility, and strong currents but not once did it dampen the energy and determination of the women who showed up.

From early registration to the evening socials, every moment was charged with intention, heart, and community. Despite the weather challenges, the empowered women and dedicated organizers from Casalay Divers stayed committed to making the day meaningful and they absolutely did.

Local Support for PADI Women’s Dive Day Puerto Galera

TThe celebration began with warm welcomes from Casalay’s team. Sherie, the resort’s marketing manager, led the opening and set the tone for the day. She highlighted the importance of community, inclusion, and environmental advocacy.

The presence of local government representatives made the event even more meaningful. Dr. Yap from MENRO and Pamela from the Marine Guardians shared inspiring messages. They reminded everyone that divers are not just tourists or adventurers. They are also key allies in protecting the ocean. Their support reinforced the event’s deeper purpose. This dive day was not only about fun, but also about taking an active role in caring for the environment.

Coral Nursery Project and Clean-Up Dive Despite the Odds

In true dive community fashion, the heart of the event took place underwater. The day’s most impactful activity was a clean-up dive and coral nursery project at the Casalay House Reef. Led by resident instructor Gaurav, participants were briefed on how to safely conduct the clean-up while navigating the rough conditions.

Armed with mesh bags and strong resolve, we collected trash from the reef. We even ensured we didn’t disturb the fragile marine ecosystem. Alongside this was the symbolic launch of a coral nursery—an effort that signals Casalay’s long-term commitment to reef rehabilitation and sustainable diving.

Recognizing Ocean Heroes in Action

One of the day’s standout moments was the Trash Hero Award, Bena collected the most during the clean-up dive. Her efforts reflected what the day was all about: showing up, doing the work, and leaving the ocean better than we found it.

After surfacing and drying off, we gathered for shared snacks at the dive shop. It was a casual yet heartfelt break where new friendships were formed, stories were exchanged, and laughter echoed through the rain-soaked resort.

Wellness and Wisdom: Yoga and Talks

What was planned to be a sunset yoga session by the sea was quickly moved indoors due to the persistent downpour. However, that didn’t take away from the experience. Instead, we rolled out our mats inside the Casalay dive shop. The rain on the roof created a calm and grounding backdrop.

As evening approached, the energy shifted into something more intimate and thought-provoking. A series of talks and socials brought the community together once more.

I opened the session by sharing how social media is shaping the diving world—from influencing travel decisions to raising awareness about marine conservation. My talk resonated deeply, especially among divers who use their platforms to amplify their underwater experiences.

Kathlene gave a presentation on the Management Area Effectiveness Tool. This tool helps measure and guide the success of Marine Protected Areas. She explained how science and policy support marine conservation. Her talk helped everyone see how the dive community plays a key role in protecting marine life.

Food, Music, and Meaningful Conversations

The energy peaked during dinner and the live band performance. Sea breeze, music, and good food set the perfect scene. A raffle draw brought more excitement. Prizes included two 5-dive packages, and a 3 Days and 2 Nights stay at the resort. The lucky winners left with something to look forward to.

The evening ended with heartfelt closing remarks. Everyone agreed—this wasn’t just an event. It was a movement, an experience, and a memory to cherish.

Why PADI Women’s Dive Day Puerto Galera Matters

I joined PADI Women’s Dive Day in Puerto Galera for the first time, and it became more than just a weekend escape. It reminded me of the strength we build through community especially when women unite for a purpose. Divers, environmental advocates, and leaders came together in one space. We showed how connected we are in our mission to protect the ocean. We proved that even when conditions weren’t perfect, our passion as women divers still stood out.