Reef · Pinnacle · Drop-off

Anilao's most iconic site: two large coral-crusted rock mounds separated by a sandy channel, with a concrete cross planted between them at roughly 15–18 m by former President Fidel V. Ramos (later blessed by Pope John Paul II), giving the formation the feel of an altar in a cathedral. Once barren from fishing, the sanctuary has been rebuilt through coral transplantation and a long-running fish-feeding tradition, and now teems with snappers, fusiliers, batfish and reef fish swirling around the cross. Depths run from the mound tops to about 30 m; mild-to-moderate currents can pick up.
Typical current strength at this dive site
Noticeable current requiring some effort to swim against. Good buoyancy control recommended.
Strength Scale
None
Mild
Moderate
Strong
Monthly conditions and seasonal highlights — tap a month
Shoulder season with generally good conditions. Some variability in weather and visibility.
5 species recorded at this site
Be aware of these potential hazards at this dive site
Current
MediumModerate tidal current can reach 1–2 kt around the rock mounds; plan dive around slack
Boat traffic
MediumHeavy banca dive-boat traffic above the popular sanctuary — mandatory SMB on ascent
Depth
MediumMounds drop to ~30 m; extended time at depth pushes NDLs for Open Water divers
Certification Required
A minimum of Open Water certification is required to dive this site.
Immersive panoramic view of this dive site
360° panorama coming soon
Immersive underwater views will be available when panoramic imagery is uploaded
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Vertical range at this site
Minimum Depth
16 ft
Shallowest point
Average Depth
59 ft
Typical dive depth
Maximum Depth
98 ft
Deepest point
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