On this tropical island, you will find the only aquarium, the Mactan Island Aquarium located in Barangay Maribago (along the main highway) in Mactan, Cebu. Ideal for all ages, this underwater world is open seven days a week from 10am to 6pm. You will have a guided tour inside the aquarium to view a huge display of sea creatures (mainly fish) gathered by marine biologist, Dylan Taylor.
To begin with, you will be informed that the assortment of fish are put under observation/quarantine for two days prior to being put on view for the public to see. Reason for that is to ensure that the fishermen who have fished it out of the Philippine seas have done it legally and not by dynamite fishing or with the use of cyanide. Monitored on a daily basis, it can also be distinguished if a fish is not in good shape, if you happen to find white spots on its skin.
Inside the aquarium, I observed that the sea creatures are well kept and get lots of care needed. Apart from the live animal display, the underwater garbage collection, which I thought is highly important, would make many of us aware on how many would pollute our seas deliberately and irresponsibly. Having been introduced to so many facts on sea life, I was glad to know that a marine sanctuary is set up in Cebu where no fishing is allowed.
Housing such a brilliant collection of underwater creatures, the main purpose for the Mactan Island Aquarium is to attract awareness of the beauty that lies beneath the Philippine seas. The end of your tour includes a four-minute video presentation, a good pitch for ocean care and I reckon, highly effective.
No need to book any reservations in advance but for larger groups, it is recommend to contact the Mactan Island Aquarium beforehand on (0063) 032 236-6248, SMS/text (0063) 0919-485-1276 or email thefishstation@gmail.com You may also check their website, www. mactanaquarium. xetaspace. net for more information.