Microbial oceanographer Dr. Deo Florence L. Onda, from the Marine Science Institute of the University of the Philippines (UP MSI), made history for being the “first Filipino and one of the first humans” to dive into the Emden Deep, the third deepest spot on earth, in the Philippine Trench.
Dr. Onda shared a video of him with colleague American explorer Victor Vescovo when they reached the Emden Deep, ending it by raising the country’s flag and exclaimed “Atin ito [This is ours]!”
The Emden Deep, also known as the Galathea Deep or Galathea Depth, is the portion of the 10,540-metre-deep (34,580 ft) Located in the Philippine Trench exceeding 6,000-metre (20,000 ft) depths in the south-western Pacific Ocean.
“I hope that the Filipino people will be able to share in my experience of the Emden Deep. I want them to appreciate and understand that this unstudied and unknown region is an extension of their marine heritage. I would also like to think that this feat was realized in recognition of the contributions of the Filipino scientists and that we can all accomplish great things given proper support and recognition.” Dr. Onda Said.
Dr. Onda and the crew surfaced safely after the 12-hour dive and were met by even more cheers and embrace from the ship’s crew.
Image Source: DSSV Pressure Drop/UP Marine Science Institute
Additional Reports: Good news pinas, CNN
