When you hear the word saltwater fish in the Philippines, immediately Michael T. Dizon name comes into mind, he is a graduate of Studio Art at FORDHAM UNIVERSITY and Graphic Communication at PRATT INSTITUTE – School of  Professional Studies in New York. Three years after graduation, working as a consultant for Banker Trust New York, he decided to come back to his hometown, the Philippines, and start a new business. He received numerous awards including Finalist for the Apple Design Competition and PRINT’s Regional Design Annual, both in 1998.

Although already a successful graphic designer, he opened his own marine shop in 2004 – a hobby that grew into a passion.  Months before opening, he spent his time traveling and doing researches locally and abroad. He has been to Asia and European countries to supplement his expertise in marine fishkeeping.

He is continuously learning passionately about his field of expertise. He is a diver, a traveler,a seeker of new and innovative techniques of marine life. His artistic skill is now utilized in designing synthetic corals and designing marine tanks of the highest quality. His name is synonymous with marine life here in the Philippines.

Fishes & The Reef

Mike believes that when one takes something from nature, it is only proper to give something back. With this philosophy, Mike goes diving in order to monitor the condition of the coral reefs and fishes. He uses his knowledge to rehabilitate and further improve the living environment of corals reefs, therefore keeping sanctuary areas in the best state. He is an active member of Reef Check, a non profit organization to help save the reef.

Many would agree that the United States and Hong Kong continue to be one of biggest market consumers for reef fishes in the Philippines. He feels that the effect of this in time will be negative to the reef fish environment. If the Philippines develops a strong solid program or a campaign to educate and balance what many fish collectors and handlers have destroyed over those years, then many reef species that are endemic here will certaintly be protected.

By protecting our reef we dont realize the effect it has on the marine reef fishes. In fact, one square kilometre of healthy coral reef can produce up to 37 metric tons of fish (Alcala 1988).

And being a member of reef check and a certified CMAS diver, Mike sees to it that he has time to dive every year.

See you in the sea!