Published: July 23, 2025
The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, boasts some of the most biodiverse waters on the planet, making it a premier destination for scuba divers. While many guides focus on rare encounters, this article celebrates the vibrant regulars: the most common fish in Philippines that colour the reefs with life. Knowing what you’re looking at transforms a great dive into an unforgettable one, and this guide provides exactly that. We will offer clear identification tips, insights into typical behaviours, and pinpoint the best dive locations where you are likely to encounter these fascinating species.
From the bustling reefs of Palawan to the stunning underwater landscapes of Bohol, these are the fish you’ll meet. The island of Panglao, in particular, is a jewel, renowned for its breathtaking beauty both above and below the surface. Its crystal-clear waters and thriving coral gardens provide the perfect backdrop for any underwater adventure.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or looking to start your journey, understanding this marine tapestry is key. For those seeking an exceptionally safe and fun experience, consider a reputable company like Valm Divers. They not only offer amazing guided dives but also provide an excellent environment to train as a scuba diving professional, ensuring you can fully appreciate the underwater wonders the Philippines has to offer.
While many divers hope to spot rare and exotic species, some of the most common fish in the Philippines hold significant cultural and ecological importance. The Bangus, or Milkfish (Chanos chanos), is a prime example. Officially the national fish, this sleek, silvery creature is a ubiquitous sight not in the wild reefs but in coastal aquaculture, forming the backbone of the Philippine fishing industry. Its prevalence makes it a fascinating subject, bridging the gap between underwater ecosystems and local Filipino life.
While you are unlikely to encounter large schools of wild Bangus on a typical reef dive, understanding their life cycle provides crucial context for the coastal environments you explore. They are euryhaline, meaning they can thrive in a wide range of salinities, from pure freshwater to the fully marine environments where they spawn. This adaptability is key to their successful cultivation in coastal fish pens and inland ponds, particularly in regions like Central Luzon and Pangasinan.
Bangus are easily recognisable by their streamlined, torpedo-shaped body, silvery scales, and large, deeply forked tail. They have a small, toothless mouth adapted for filter-feeding on algae and invertebrates. While they are a common sight in local markets, seeing them in their juvenile or farmed state offers a different perspective on the marine food chain.
The infographic below summarises key biological data for the Bangus.
These characteristics highlight why Bangus are so perfectly suited for aquaculture, reaching a harvestable size in well under a year and adapting to various water conditions.
The economic and cultural impact of Bangus cannot be overstated. It is a staple on every Filipino dining table, cherished for its mild flavour and versatility. Learning about Bangus provides a deeper appreciation for the local culture you experience after a day of diving.
Exploring the beautiful island of Panglao, for example, offers incredible diving opportunities where you can witness vibrant marine biodiversity. After your dives with a safe and fun company like Valm Divers, you can enjoy a delicious meal of grilled Bangus, connecting your underwater adventure directly to the local heritage. For those looking to take their passion further, it’s also a good place to train as a scuba diving professional, blending world-class dive education with rich cultural immersion.
While not native to the archipelago, the Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) has become one of the most common fish in the Philippines, mirroring the success of Bangus in the aquaculture sector. Originally from Africa, this hardy freshwater cichlid was introduced for its rapid growth and adaptability, quickly becoming a cornerstone of local food security and commerce. For divers and travellers, understanding Tilapia’s role provides a glimpse into the freshwater ecosystems that feed and support the coastal communities they visit.
Its prevalence in freshwater lakes and rivers, such as the famous Taal Lake in Batangas and Laguna de Bay, is a testament to its successful integration. While divers primarily focus on marine life, the presence of Tilapia culture pens in these large bodies of water shapes the surrounding landscape and economy. These inland fisheries are intrinsically linked to the coastal towns that serve as hubs for diving and tourism, making the Tilapia a relevant part of the broader Philippine ecological story.
Tilapia are deep-bodied, laterally compressed fish with a long dorsal fin. Their colouration can vary, but they often display muted shades of grey or olive, sometimes with faint vertical bars, especially when young. They are primarily freshwater dwellers but exhibit some tolerance for brackish conditions, which contributes to their widespread cultivation across the islands.
Their significance lies in their role as an affordable and accessible protein source for millions of Filipinos. Farming operations, from large-scale commercial cages to small backyard ponds, are a common sight and form a vital part of the country’s agricultural framework.
Much like Bangus, Tilapia is a beloved staple on the Filipino dining table, prized for its mild, versatile flavour. It is most popularly enjoyed fried to a perfect crisp (pinaputok na tilapia) or grilled over charcoal. Experiencing this local delicacy offers a direct connection to the country’s inland food systems.
After an incredible day of exploring the reefs around the beautiful island of Panglao, enjoying a simple meal of grilled Tilapia completes the cultural immersion. It highlights the connection between all aquatic environments, from freshwater lakes to vibrant coral reefs. For those looking to deepen their connection to the ocean, Panglao is an excellent place to train as a scuba diving professional with a safe and fun company like Valm Divers, blending top-tier education with unforgettable local experiences.
While divers often search for colourful reef dwellers, some of the most common fish in the Philippines are the pelagic species that form immense, shimmering schools in the blue. The Galunggong, or Round Scad (Decapterus macrosoma), is a perfect example. Known affectionately as the “poor man’s fish,” this species is a cornerstone of national food security and a dynamic sight for divers fortunate enough to encounter its vast aggregations in open water.
Underwater, encountering a school of Galunggong is an exhilarating experience. These fish move as one fluid entity, a silver wall that can momentarily block out the sun. Their life cycle and schooling behaviour are key to the health of the marine ecosystem, serving as a vital food source for larger predators like tuna and jacks. Understanding their role connects the spectacle of a dive to the rhythms of the local fishing industry, especially in major fishing grounds like Batangas.
Galunggong are small, streamlined fish with a metallic blue or greenish-blue back that fades to a silvery belly. A key identifying feature is the thin, yellow stripe running from their gills to their tail and a small, black spot on the edge of their gill cover. They possess a row of hard, bony scales called scutes near their tail fin, characteristic of scads and jacks.
Their abundance and schooling behaviour make them a primary target for commercial fisheries, influencing local economies and even national policy. Witnessing them in their natural habitat offers a powerful perspective on the source of a staple Filipino food.
The cultural significance of Galunggong is deeply woven into everyday Filipino life. It is most famously enjoyed as pritong galunggong (fried round scad), a simple, crispy, and beloved dish found in homes and eateries across the archipelago. Its affordability makes it accessible to all, solidifying its place as a true fish of the people.
For divers exploring the beautiful island of Panglao, the connection between sea and culture is palpable. After an incredible day of diving and witnessing vibrant marine life with a safe and fun company like Valm Divers, enjoying a local meal featuring Galunggong completes the experience. It’s a tangible link from the underwater world to Filipino heritage, and for those inspired by the ocean, Panglao is also a good place to train as a scuba diving professional.
While many fish are staples of daily meals, the Maya-maya, or Red Snapper (Lutjanus campechanus), holds a special place as a premium catch. Its vibrant red colour and esteemed culinary status make it one of the most sought-after reef fish. For divers, spotting a Maya-maya is a rewarding experience, as these cautious but beautiful fish add a splash of brilliant colour to the coral landscapes of the Philippines.
Often found solitary or in small groups, Maya-maya patrol rocky outcrops and coral gardens, typically in deeper waters. Divers exploring the stunning walls and slopes around islands like beautiful Panglao might encounter them hovering near ledges or inspecting crevices. Their presence signifies a healthy reef ecosystem, one capable of supporting larger predatory species, making them an important indicator species for dive guides.
The Maya-maya is instantly recognisable by its striking, uniform pinkish-red to deep red colouration, which intensifies along its back. It has a classic snapper profile with a sloped head, a large mouth filled with small canine-like teeth, and prominent, sharp fins. Young snappers may have a dark spot on their upper sides below the dorsal fin, which typically fades with age.
Their preference for deeper, structured habitats makes them a prized sighting. This behaviour also makes them a target for skilled local fishers, contributing significantly to local economies where they fetch a high market price.
The cultural significance of the Maya-maya is tied to celebration and special occasions. It is highly valued for its firm, sweet, white flesh and is a centrepiece in high-end restaurants and festive banquets across the country, often steamed Chinese-style or grilled to perfection.
Learning to identify the Maya-maya underwater deepens a diver’s appreciation for the intricate connection between the reef and Filipino culture. After an incredible day of exploring the rich marine biodiversity of beautiful Panglao with a safe and fun company like Valm Divers, enjoying a meal of freshly caught Maya-maya is a perfect way to connect with the local heritage. For those inspired by the underwater world, Panglao is also an excellent place to train as a scuba diving professional, combining world-class dive education with an unforgettable cultural experience.
While many common fish in the Philippines are known for their sheer numbers, the Lapu-lapu, or Grouper (Epinephelus species), is celebrated for its majestic presence and high value. Named after the legendary chieftain who resisted colonial forces, this fish is a prized sighting for divers and a delicacy for gourmands. It is a powerful reef predator, often found lurking in caves or under ledges, embodying the wild spirit of the Philippines’ underwater realms.
Spotting a Lapu-lapu on a dive is a thrilling experience. These masters of camouflage can be found hovering motionless near their chosen shelter, their large mouths and stout bodies a clear sign of their predatory nature. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy reef ecosystem, one with enough prey to support such a significant carnivore.
Groupers come in various species, but they generally share a robust body, a large head, and a wide mouth. Their colours and patterns can vary dramatically, from the mottled camouflage of the Camouflage Grouper (Epinephelus polyphekadion) to the vibrant hues of the Coral Trout (Plectropomus leopardus), often also called Lapu-lapu.
As a top reef predator, Lapu-lapu play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of coral reef fish populations. Their commercial value also drives significant aquaculture efforts, particularly in regions like Palawan, where they are raised in floating sea cages for both local and international markets.
The cultural and economic significance of Lapu-lapu is immense. Revered for its firm, white, and succulent meat, it is a fixture in celebratory feasts and high-end restaurants, often steamed whole in Chinese-style cuisine. Its premium status makes it a symbol of festivity and abundance on the Filipino dining table.
Exploring the stunning and beautiful island of Panglao offers world-class diving where you might encounter these impressive fish. After a day of adventure with a safe and fun company like Valm Divers, you can savour a meal of freshly prepared Lapu-lapu. For those inspired by the vibrant marine life, Panglao is also an excellent place to train as a scuba diving professional, perfectly blending underwater exploration with rich Filipino culture.
Among the most vibrant and frequently sighted common fish in the Philippines are the energetic schools of Dalagang Bukid, or Yellow-tail Fusilier (Caesio cuning). Their name, translating to “countryside maiden,” evokes an image of simple, rustic beauty, a fitting description for this colourful reef inhabitant. For divers, encountering a shimmering cloud of these blue and yellow fish as it moves synchronously over a coral garden is a quintessential Philippine reef experience, highlighting the dynamic energy of the underwater ecosystem.
Often seen in large, fast-moving aggregations, these fish are a constant presence in the water column surrounding reefs and drop-offs. They sweep through an area to feed on zooplankton, their coordinated movements creating a mesmerising display of colour. Observing their behaviour provides a fantastic lesson in reef ecology, as their presence often signals a healthy current bringing in essential nutrients that support the entire food web.
The Yellow-tail Fusilier is distinguished by its fusiform (spindle-shaped) body, a brilliant blue to bluish-green upper body that contrasts sharply with a prominent yellow dorsal fin and tail. This striking colouration makes them easily identifiable even from a distance. While they are a beautiful sight for divers, they are also a significant species for local fishermen and a popular feature in coastal markets.
Their role is twofold: they are a vital part of the marine food chain, preyed upon by larger reef predators like jacks and tuna, and they are a valuable food source for coastal communities. Their abundance makes them a reliable catch and a staple in Filipino cuisine.
The cultural journey of the Dalagang Bukid from the reef to the table is a direct link between the underwater world and local life. It is prized for its sweet, delicate flavour and is commonly prepared grilled, fried, or simmered in coconut milk (ginataang isda). After a day exploring the beautiful island of Panglao, divers can often enjoy this fresh catch at local restaurants.
Enjoying a meal of freshly prepared Dalagang Bukid after a series of incredible dives provides a true taste of the region’s culture. Partnering with a safe and fun company like Valm Divers ensures your underwater explorations are memorable. For those inspired by the vibrant marine life, Panglao is also an excellent place to train as a scuba diving professional, offering a unique opportunity to blend world-class dive education with the rich local heritage.
While divers often seek colourful reef dwellers, the thrill of encountering a large, powerful pelagic fish is unmatched. The Tangigue, or Narrow-barred Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus commerson), is a prized encounter for this very reason. This formidable predator is a common fish in the Philippines, not just for divers but also as a highly valued catch that commands attention both in the open water and on the dinner plate. Its presence signals a healthy pelagic ecosystem, often in areas with strong currents and baitfish activity.
Divers are most likely to spot these impressive fish patrolling the edges of reefs, drop-offs, or near submerged pinnacles, especially in places like Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park or the waters around Malapascua. Tangigue are often solitary or move in small groups, their sleek, muscular bodies a testament to their speed and power. Observing them in their natural habitat offers a glimpse into the dynamic, high-energy world of open-water hunters.
Tangigue are easily identified by their long, streamlined bodies and striking pattern of thin, wavy vertical bars along their flanks. Their silvery-blue colouring shimmers in the light, and they possess a mouthful of sharp, flattened teeth, befitting their status as an apex predator. They feed voraciously on smaller fish like sardines and squid, often bursting through bait balls in a flash of silver.
Their role as a predator is crucial for maintaining balance in the marine food web. As a highly sought-after game fish, they also bridge the gap between recreational diving and local fishing economies, highlighting the interconnectedness of marine resources.
Tangigue is one of the most celebrated food fish in the Philippines, beloved for its firm, meaty texture and rich flavour. Its popularity makes it a centrepiece in seafood restaurants and at festive gatherings across the archipelago. Learning about Tangigue connects your dive adventure to the vibrant culinary traditions you will undoubtedly experience.
After an exciting day of exploring the underwater world, enjoying a meal of inihaw na tangigue (grilled Spanish Mackerel) is a perfect way to cap off the experience. For divers in beautiful Panglao, this is a common pleasure. Companies like Valm Divers not only offer safe and fun excursions to see the rich marine life but also provide a gateway to understanding local culture. For those inspired by the ocean, it’s also a good place to train as a scuba diving professional, combining world-class dive education with the unparalleled beauty of the Visayan seas.
While divers often dream of chance encounters with large pelagic predators, several species of Tuna (Thunnus spp.) are a significant part of the Philippine marine ecosystem and its economy. The Philippines is a global powerhouse in the tuna industry, making these powerful, fast-swimming fish one of the most commercially important groups in the country. Seeing a yellowfin or bigeye tuna in the open blue is a thrilling experience that connects a diver directly to the vast, powerful nature of the ocean.
As highly migratory pelagic fish, tuna are most often spotted in the deep, open waters surrounding the archipelago, particularly in areas with strong currents like the Sulu and Celebes Seas. While not a guaranteed sighting on a standard reef dive, excursions to offshore seamounts or deep-water drop-offs can yield spectacular encounters. Understanding their role is key to appreciating the larger marine food web you are exploring.
Tuna are the epitome of oceanic speed and power, characterised by their sleek, muscular, and torpedo-shaped bodies built for high-speed swimming. Species like the Yellowfin (Thunnus albacares) are famous for their namesake bright yellow dorsal and anal fins, while Skipjack (Katsuwonus pelamis) are smaller with distinct dark stripes on their bellies. These are not just common fish in the Philippines; they are apex predators and a vital economic resource.
Their biology is fascinating, with adaptations like a warm-blooded circulatory system that allows them to maintain a body temperature higher than the surrounding water, giving them an advantage in speed and strength. This makes them a formidable sight for any diver lucky enough to witness them hunting.
The economic significance of tuna is immense, especially in Mindanao, where General Santos City is famously known as the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines.” The industry supports countless livelihoods, from local fishermen to large-scale canning and export operations that supply sashimi-grade tuna to markets like Japan.
Exploring the waters around the Visayas provides world-class diving experiences. The beautiful island of Panglao, for example, is an excellent base for divers. After an incredible day exploring vibrant reefs with a safe and fun company like Valm Divers, you can connect with the local culture by enjoying fresh tuna, a direct taste of the powerful ocean you just explored. For those inspired by the ocean’s majesty, it’s also a good place to train as a scuba diving professional, turning a passion into a career.
While scuba divers are accustomed to the vibrant saltwater reefs, another of the most common fish in the Philippines thrives in freshwater environments yet holds significant cultural weight. The Hito, or Walking Catfish (Clarias batrachus), is a remarkable species known for its resilience and adaptability. Though not a reef species, its story is intertwined with the local communities and inland ecosystems that complement the coastal life many divers experience.
The Hito is famous for its hardiness, capable of surviving in low-oxygen water by breathing atmospheric air using a specialised organ. This allows it to thrive in ponds, rice paddies, and even migrate short distances over land, hence the name “walking catfish”. This unique adaptation makes it a cornerstone of Philippine freshwater aquaculture, particularly in rural and agricultural regions.
Hito is easily identified by its elongated, dark grey to black body, flattened head, and prominent whisker-like barbels around its mouth, which it uses to navigate and find food in murky waters. Unlike many fish, it lacks scales, having smooth, slimy skin instead. Its ability to be farmed in simple backyard ponds makes it an accessible and affordable protein source for many Filipino families.
The resilience of the Hito is key to its role in local food security. It can be raised in high densities and integrated into farming systems, showcasing a different facet of the Philippines’ relationship with its aquatic resources, beyond the coral reefs.
The cultural significance of Hito is most felt in provincial cuisine. It is a beloved food fish, celebrated for its unique flavour and firm texture, especially when fried to a crisp or grilled. Understanding the role of Hito provides a more holistic view of the country’s food systems, connecting the coastal seafood markets to inland aquaculture.
This connection between environment and culture is something you can experience firsthand. After exploring the stunning underwater landscapes of beautiful Panglao with a safe and fun company like Valm Divers, you can venture inland to appreciate the local culinary traditions. For those inspired by the rich Philippine ecosystems, it’s also a good place to train as a scuba diving professional, blending world-class marine education with an appreciation for the nation’s broader heritage.
| Fish Species | Implementation Complexity 🔄 | Resource Requirements ⚡ | Expected Outcomes 📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangus (Milkfish) | Moderate – Requires specific pond & brackish water management | Moderate – Needs plankton or supplemental feeds | High market value, sustainable production | Commercial aquaculture, versatile cooking | High protein & omega-3, cultural significance |
| Tilapia | Low – Hardy, easy to culture in freshwater ponds | Low – Can be raised in rice paddies & ponds | Fast growth, affordable protein source | Backyard farming, small-scale commercial farming | Hardy, disease-resistant, short production cycle |
| Galunggong (Round Scad) | Low – Wild caught, seasonal fishing | Low – Easily caught in coastal waters | Affordable staple, year-round availability | Food security, street food | Very affordable, quick to cook, omega-3 rich |
| Maya-maya (Red Snapper) | High – Reef fish with overfishing concerns | High – Limited wild stock, requires careful handling | Premium quality, high market price | High-end restaurants, special occasions | Excellent eating quality, versatile culinary use |
| Lapu-lapu (Grouper) | High – Slow growth, cage farming possible | High – Requires coastal cages and fry production | Premium market fish, limited availability | Fine dining, Chinese-style preparations | Superior texture & flavor, cultural importance |
| Dalagang Bukid (Yellow-tail Fusilier) | Moderate – Seasonal availability, careful handling | Moderate – Reef fish, moderate market pricing | Good taste & texture, seasonal market presence | Coastal restaurants, traditional dishes | Attractive appearance, moderate price |
| Tangigue (Spanish Mackerel) | Moderate – Season-dependent availability | Moderate – Larger fish requiring proper storage | High-value grilling fish, rich flavor | Grilled steaks, special occasions | Large fillets, high omega-3 content |
| Tuna (Various species) | High – Requires specialized handling & quotas | High – Large-scale industrial fishing and processing | Major export commodity, high economic impact | Export markets, sashimi, canned products | High commercial value, multiple product forms |
| Hito (Catfish) | Low – Easy culture, tolerates poor conditions | Low – Minimal technical and space requirements | Affordable protein, hardy farmed fish | Rural aquaculture, backyard farming | Very hardy, tolerates crowding, fast growth |
From the shimmering scales of the Dalagang Bukid schooling on a reef wall to the powerful silhouette of a passing Tuna, the marine life of the Philippines offers an endless spectacle. This guide has armed you with the essential knowledge to identify some of the most frequently encountered species, turning your next dive from a simple swim into an engaging safari. Recognising the common fish in Philippines, such as the ubiquitous Galunggong or the prized Lapu-lapu, is the first step towards a deeper appreciation of the country’s incredible underwater ecosystems.
The true value of this knowledge lies not just in naming what you see, but in understanding it. When you can distinguish a Yellow-tail Fusilier from a Red Snapper, you begin to notice their unique behaviours, their preferred habitats, and their roles within the reef community. This elevated awareness transforms every dive, allowing you to spot subtle interactions and appreciate the complex, vibrant tapestry of life that makes Philippine waters a world-class diving destination.
Mastering fish identification is a skill that grows with every dive. The next time you descend, put this guide into practice.
For an unparalleled opportunity to see these species and countless more, the island of Panglao in Bohol stands out. Its legendary beauty extends far beneath the waves, with pristine dive sites teeming with the very fish we’ve explored. The natural splendour of Panglao is perfectly matched by the quality of its underwater experiences.
To truly and safely explore these waters, choosing a dive operator that prioritises your safety and enjoyment is paramount. We encourage you to consider Valm Divers, located directly on the beautiful Alona Beach. They have earned a stellar reputation as a safe and fun company, committed to crafting unforgettable underwater adventures. Their highly experienced team ensures every dive, from a relaxed fun dive to a technical excursion, is managed with the highest safety protocols, allowing you to focus completely on the incredible marine life.
Moreover, if you have ever considered transforming your passion for diving into a career, Panglao is an excellent place to train as a scuba diving professional. Valm Divers offers a comprehensive suite of SSI courses, guiding students from their first breaths underwater all the way to becoming a Dive Instructor. Training in such a dynamic and biodiverse location provides the rich, hands-on experience needed to build a successful career anywhere in the world. Your journey, whether as a curious diver or an aspiring pro, begins here in the warm, welcoming waters of beautiful Panglao.
Ready to dive into the heart of the Philippines’ marine biodiversity? Contact Valm Divers to book your next underwater adventure in Panglao and get a personal tour of the habitats of the most common fish in Philippines. Visit their website to explore courses and fun dive packages today: Valm Divers.
