Ocean Park primed for student tours

CEBU, Philippines — The opening of the largest marine park in the country by far, Cebu Ocean Park, promised not only to boost the province’s tourism edge, but will also serve as an on-site educational and experiential marine park destination for children.

Cebu Sealife Park Inc., president Lim Chee Yong vowed to make the facility an educational venue for schoolchildren around Visayas and Mindanao as it is also offering programs for educational tours.

Cebu Ocean Park and Events Center, also banners its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program called “I Love My Ocean Planet,” which encourages volunteerism, public education and community mobilization activities designed to increase public awareness and action on coastal management issues.

Its CSR program also aims at instilling pride in the Philippines natural resources. “It is an expanded responsibility of stewardship not only with marine biodiversity but also with other creatures that are dependent on the wellness of the ocean.”

The company said Cebu Ocean Park is fully aware of its obligation to reach a broad public and impart necessary information relevant to current environmental issues.

Situated on a 1.5-hectare property adjacent to the SM Seaside Cebu complex at the South Road Properties, the marine park, which is described as the largest marine park in the country (bigger than its sister ocean park in Manila), opened its doors to the Cebuano public last weekend.

Cebu Ocean Park boasts of its 7-meter deep Oceanarium, the largest so far in the country.

The Oceanarium showcases a 360-degree viewing tunnel that houses thousands of the world’s most amazing marine species.

Four years in the making, the parks other attractions include; Jungle Trek, creepy critters, multi-animal shows, sea trek encounter, stingray interaction, bird feeding, fish spa, crocodile cage, among others.

As an all season, year-round destination, Yong said hopes that the facility will become another landmark for Cebu. (FREEMAN)