The Department of Tourism’s premier underwater photography shootout makes its much-anticipated comeback in one of the Philippines’ top diving destinations!
The Puerto Galera Underwater Shootout 2026 is happening from September 16 to 20, 2026, in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, where professional and amateur underwater photographers, divers, and ocean enthusiasts from around the world will gather for five days of competition, camaraderie, and unforgettable underwater adventures.
Set against the breathtaking marine biodiversity of Puerto Galera, the shootout will showcase the destination’s vibrant reefs, fascinating macro subjects, and diverse marine life through the lens of underwater storytelling.
Known as the gateway to the “Center of the Center” of Marine Biodiversity and recognised as the Best Diving Destination at the DOT Tourism Awards 2025, Puerto Galera offers a spectacular backdrop for capturing the beauty of the Philippines’ underwater world.
This year’s judging panel brings together three highly respected names in underwater photography: Jerome Kim of South Korea, Aaron Wong of Singapore, and Scott “Gutsy” Tuason of the Philippines.
Jerome Kim brings extensive experience from judging leading underwater photography competitions across Asia, including the United Nations World Oceans Day Competition, Asia UW Photo Challenge, Dragon Cup and Okinawa Masterclass.
Award-winning underwater photographer Aaron Wong is known for his distinctive lighting style and creative approach. A Nikon and Seacam Ambassador and ADEX Ambassador of Photography, he has received international recognition from competitions including Underwater Photographer of the Year.
Scott “Gutsy” Tuason is an award-winning wildlife and underwater photographer, author and pioneer of blackwater photography in the Philippines. His achievements include the Palme d’Or at the Antibes Festival and Underwater Photography Book of the Year at the 2017 Underwater Photographer of the Year competition.
Together, the judges bring decades of experience, technical knowledge and artistic vision to the competition.
The event is held in cooperation with the Department of Tourism Region IV-B MIMAROPA and the Municipality of Puerto Galera, backed by Underwater360 as Official Media Partner.
Registrations are open through the link below:
