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Located in the middle of the Central Sulu Sea, 181km southeast of Puerto Princesa, Tubbataha Reef Marine Park was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1993. It has become a magnet for scuba divers , who sail to it every year during high season (March to June) on liveaboard dive boats anchored mostly in Puerto Princesa. Dive operators in Manila can arrange packages, which cost around US$1200 for one week, including flights to Puerto, all food and unlimited diving. The reef is one of the best in the world, with sightings of sharks and mantas a daily occurrence. But its ecological importance should not be forgotten. Sixty percent of Filipinos' animal protein comes from fish, and fishermen rely on reefs such as this for their livelihood and as nurseries that regenerate stocks. Around 2000 divers visit the reef every year and many islanders support themselves by catering to visitors and by selling shells and handicrafts fashioned from reef materials. Both these industries have taken their toll. Overfishing, repeated anchoring on the fragile coral, and a fishing practice called "blasting" which literally dynamites fish in the water - are all highly destructive. The good news is that scientists have been monitoring the reef and say that in recent years the situation has improved. Independent travel to Tubbataha is impossible and even licenced dive boats need a permit. For details of liveaboards visiting the reef try Dive Buddies in Manila (tel 02/521 9168 or 521 9169), Aquaventure Manila (tel 02/899 2831) or Queen Ann Divers in Puerto Princesa (tel 048/4332 719)
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