An international group of scuba diving experts has included two of the Philippines’ tourists spots on its top 100 ultimate diving destinations, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced.

The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) named Malapascua Island in Daanbantayan, Cebu and  Apo Island in Dauin, Negros Oriental as among the world’s greatest diving sites.

The complete list, dubbed as the “100 Dives to Do Before You Die,” was published in PADI’s official magazine, "Sport Diver."

Malapascua was chosen for its consistent thresher shark sightings while Apo Island was cited for an abundance of excellent spots frequented by underwater photographers.  

Tourism Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque Jr. said the inclusion of Malapascua Island and Apo Island was a boost to the DOT’s campaign to promote the country as a top tourist destination.  

“Our long-haul strategy continues to pay off, with international markets pronouncing our sites as to dive for," Jarque said.

Tourism Secretary Joseph Durano , meanwhile, said that the honor only proves that the Philippines remains a "must-see destination."

"The Philippines is a must-see, proven by no less than an insider's guide to the world's best diving destinations," he said.

Eight other spots in Southeast Asia were also included on the list such as Lembeh Straits, Sangalaki, Raja Ampat, USS Liberty and Komodo Marine Park in Indonesia; Sipadan and Layang Layang in Malaysia; and Richilieu Rock in Thailand.

Meanwhile, the DOT also announced that S/Y Philippine Siren, the newest and biggest cruise vessel owned by a British dive yacht operator will start sailing in November 2009.

Worldwide Dive and Sail’s  S/Y Philippine Siren will ply dive site routes of south Visayas from Mactan to Apo Island, Southern Leyte to Bohol, Boracay via Apo Reef to the wrecks of Coron and Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park.

"These are just start-up dive site packages.  The UK market is aware of the uniqueness and diversity of our waters.  We offer reefs, drift dives, wrecks, coral gardens, night diving, caves, big and small fish – no other country can offer more than 7,100 islands," Durano said.