Freediving at Panagsama Beach, Moalboal, Cebu, Philippines

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I just had to get away from the city! The corona pandemic took a toll on me. Work became so stressful. For my overall wellbeing, I decided to resigned. And damn, it was the best decision I have made so far. Others won't agree with me randomly giving up the job in the midst of the global crisis but I just couldn't take it anymore. After I rendered my 30 day resignation, I decided to do what I always made me happy. I packed my bag and headed to my favorite place in the world - PANAGSAMA BEACH in Moalboal, Cebu.

Why is Panagsama Beach is my favorite place in the world?

Besides being close to home? Well, it's a protected marine sanctuary. The place has been the home to many fishes, corals, turtles, and even dolphins! Many tourists, locals and foreign guests come to this place to snorkel, free dive or dive with tanks. 

I've been coming to this place for over 5 years and I introduce this place to some of my friends and coworkers. They always end up being in awe with the beauty of the place. 

 Over the past years, I've been jealous of those who can swim deep into the coral bed. During my recent visit, I've finally decided to learn how to do it. I've made friends with some of the locals here and befriended a diving instructor who agreed to teach me the basics of free diving. His name is Kuya Recon. He works at this dive shop - M&L Diver Town which is situated just along the beach. This is located beside the Pacitas Resort. 

Ofcourse one should have a snorkel set and fins. Since I don't own any fins, I rented at the dive shop for only Php 100 per day. Pretty cheap. 

I really had difficulty during my first session. It took me a while to learn equalizing below the water. Good thing my teacher was so patient with me.  I've been able to dive for 5m - 7m deep while holding my breath for a maximum of 25 seconds! Great achievement for a first timer. I was really worth it in the end.

The line of coral reef along the Panagsama Beach stretches a few kilometers so one would definitely enjoy swimming for an hour or two just admiring the abundance of marine living creatures. 

After being able to learn to free dive, I am now able to swim side by side with the turtles which is totally badass! Turtles here at the Panagsama beach have been used to the human species lingering alongside them. So it doesn't really  bother the turtles anymore if one gets too close to them. Just don't touch them. A golden rule. 

Where to Stay in Panagsama Beach?

The beach is lined up with resorts and hostels which are very affordable. However, I always end up coming back to PESCADOR VIEW. They have a backpackers room where it will only cost you Php 350 a night! Or like me, I'd sometimes book this small cottage for only Php 500 per night if you book online at Agoda.com. I've been staying at this place for the past 5 years. The staff already knows me and the place is close to the dive shop where I'm friends with the locals there. 

Pescador View also has direct access to the beach! And the view is just as spectacular and relaxing. You could also see the Pescador Island from the resort too. 

I'm ending this post with "JUST KEEP SWIMMING!"

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