Dungon Wall, Puerto Galera: Philippine wall diving

Dungon Wall in Puerto Galera presents a multi-level dive profile, starting with a gentle slope of hard and soft corals before dropping into a vibrant vertical wall. This transition begins as shallow as 8 to 10 metres, with the wall itself commencing around 12 metres and descending to depths of 25 to 35 metres. The upper slope areas are especially rich in reef fish and smaller invertebrates, offering a gradual introduction to the site's biodiversity before the main drop-off.

As you follow the wall down, the topography changes from a coral garden to a more exposed, current-swept environment. This exposure opens up opportunities for larger pelagic species to pass by, especially at deeper sections. The structural complexity of the wall also creates numerous hiding spots for specific macro life, including various nudibranchs and flatworms which thrive in these conditions.

A notable feature of Dungon Wall is the presence of an old catamaran wreck, resting around 28 metres. This adds an additional dimension to the dive, creating an artificial reef structure that attracts its own distinct community of marine life. Exploring the wreck provides a different experience from the natural wall, offering shelter for eels and other reef inhabitants, and extending the potential dive profile for those with the appropriate certification.

The wall itself is home to diverse coral formations, from fan corals to extensive colonies of hard and soft corals, which are particularly healthy and colourful. Among these corals, you will often find clownfish interacting with their anemones, parrotfish grazing, and a variety of reef fish. Specific species like lionfish and scorpionfish are common, blending into the coral backdrop.

One of the site's distinct draws is the electric oyster (Ctenoides ales), typically found around 24 metres. These bivalves are known for their pulsing display within the coral crevices. Other unique finds can include pygmy seahorses, though spotting them requires an attentive eye and a slow pace. Tortoises and sea snakes are also regular visitors to the Dungon Wall, adding to the diversity of larger inhabitants.

The varying depths and exposure to currents at Dungon Wall mean marine life shifts as you descend. The shallower reef top is bustling with reef fish activity, while the deeper wall face and wreck often host moray eels, pufferfish, and barracudas, especially during the cooler months. The combination of reef, wall, and wreck offers a wide range of subjects for both videographers and still photographers.

Dungon Wall is not just about the larger encounters; the macro opportunities here are substantial. Beyond the electric oysters and pygmy seahorses, you will find frogfish, pipefish, and numerous species of shrimp and crabs, particularly the porcelain crabs nestled within anemones. The site offers a layered experience, appealing to divers who appreciate both wide-angle reef scenes and detailed macro exploration.