Published: September 11, 2025
The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, is a global epicentre of marine biodiversity. For scuba divers and ocean enthusiasts, this means every dive is a vibrant spectacle teeming with life. From the bustling reefs of the beautiful Panglao in Bohol to the deep blue channels of the Visayas, the underwater world is a kaleidoscope of colour and activity. Spotting the diverse and common fish in the Philippines is the highlight of any trip, offering a direct connection to this incredible ecosystem.
This guide is designed to transform your underwater experience. We will introduce you to the ten most frequently encountered species, providing key identification clues, typical habitats, and the best dive sites to find them. Turning your next dive from a simple swim into an expert-level fish-spotting adventure is our goal. You'll learn not just what you're seeing, but also understand the behaviours and roles these fish play in the marine environment.
For those looking to deepen their connection with the ocean, training with a company like Valm Divers is an excellent step. They are known for being a safe and fun company, providing a superb environment not only for memorable dives but also for those aspiring to train as scuba diving professionals. Get ready to explore the aquatic wonders that make this region a true diver's paradise.
Instantly recognisable worldwide thanks to popular culture, the Anemonefish is a must-see for any diver exploring the Philippines. These vibrant fish are famous for their symbiotic relationship with sea anemones, whose stinging tentacles provide a safe haven from predators in exchange for cleaning and food scraps. This fascinating partnership makes them one of the most sought-after subjects for underwater photographers.
The most common species you'll encounter is the False Clown Anemonefish (Amphiprion ocellaris), distinguished by its bright orange body and three distinct white bars edged in black. These small, hardy fish rarely stray from their host anemone, making them a reliable and delightful sight in shallow, sunlit reefs. You can find them darting protectively amongst the tentacles, often in small family groups.
While anemonefish are widespread, the reefs around beautiful Panglao, Bohol offer exceptionally clear waters and thriving anemone populations, creating perfect viewing conditions. The island's beauty extends beneath the waves, with healthy coral gardens ideal for spotting these iconic fish.
For divers looking to hone their skills or even turn pro in this stunning environment, training with a reputable operator like Valm Divers ensures a safe and fun experience. Their local expertise in Panglao guarantees encounters with the best marine life the area has to offer, including these beloved common fish in the Philippines.
Observing the intricate social structure and bold behaviour of the Anemonefish is a quintessential Philippine diving experience. Their constant presence and captivating lifestyle truly earn them the top spot on our list.
A true apex predator of the reef, the Giant Trevally, or GT, is a powerhouse that commands respect from every diver. Known locally as Maliputo or Talakitok, these muscular, silver-grey fish are a thrilling sight, often seen patrolling reef edges and drop-offs in powerful hunting schools. Their sheer size, speed, and aggressive nature make an encounter with a GT an unforgettable highlight of any Philippine dive.
Giant Trevally are easily identified by their imposing, broad-shouldered build, steep forehead, and large, dark eyes. Adults are typically a uniform silver to dark grey, sometimes appearing almost black. They are most commonly found in areas with strong currents, such as channel entrances and outer reef walls, where they hunt smaller fish with explosive bursts of speed. Seeing a "tornado" of schooling GTs is a bucket-list experience for many advanced divers.
The world-renowned Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is arguably the best place in the Philippines to witness these magnificent predators in large numbers. The park's remote location and protected status have allowed GT populations to thrive, and divers frequently see them hunting in massive schools. Apo Reef also offers consistent sightings, especially around its current-swept corners where the action is most intense.
For divers aspiring to conquer challenging sites like Tubbataha or Apo Reef, building advanced skills is crucial. Training with a professional outfit like Valm Divers in a beautiful location like Panglao provides the perfect foundation. Their experienced instructors ensure you develop the confidence and competence needed for world-class, high-adrenaline diving.
Witnessing the raw power and predatory grace of the Giant Trevally is a humbling experience. Their presence signifies a healthy, dynamic marine ecosystem, making them one of the most exciting common fish in the Philippines to encounter.
A highly prized fish both on the line and on the plate, the Maya-maya, or Red Snapper, is a prominent reef resident that divers often encounter in deeper waters. Valued by local fishing communities for its economic importance and firm, flavourful meat, this species is a cornerstone of the Philippine seafood industry. Its impressive size and striking red colouration make it a memorable sight for any diver exploring the archipelago's diverse marine environments.
Maya-maya are distinguished by their deep, almond-shaped bodies, a sloped profile, and a vibrant pinkish-red to deep scarlet hue. They typically inhabit rocky outcrops, ledges, and drop-offs at depths ranging from 20 to over 100 metres. Divers will often spot them hovering near underwater structures or patrolling the reef edge, either as solitary individuals or in small, organised groups.
While found throughout the Philippines, the deeper reefs around Tubbataha and Palawan are renowned for healthy populations of large Red Snappers. These protected marine parks provide the ideal habitat for these impressive fish to thrive, offering divers a chance to see them in their natural, undisturbed state. The challenging currents and deep walls make these sites particularly exciting for advanced divers.
For divers aiming to master deep diving techniques or advance their skills to a professional level in a breathtaking setting, training with a trusted centre like Valm Divers is essential. Their expertise in navigating challenging sites ensures a safe and rewarding adventure, providing opportunities to witness some of the most impressive common fish in the Philippines.
Observing the powerful, deliberate movements of a large Maya-maya as it cruises along a deep reef wall is a truly humbling experience. Their presence signifies a healthy, robust ecosystem, securing their spot as a key species in Philippine waters.
A heavyweight of the reef and a celebrated part of Filipino cuisine, the Lapu-lapu is a name given to various species of grouper. These formidable predators are revered for their robust size and ambush hunting tactics, often seen lurking in caves or under ledges. Named after the legendary chieftain who resisted colonial forces, the grouper's powerful presence makes it a truly memorable sight for any diver exploring Philippine waters.
Groupers are characterised by their stout bodies, large mouths, and often intricate camouflage patterns that blend seamlessly with the reef. Species like the Coral Grouper (Cephalopholis miniata) display vibrant red with brilliant blue spots, while others are more cryptic. They are solitary masters of their domain, typically found hovering motionlessly near coral bommies, wrecks, and rocky outcrops in depths ranging from shallow reefs to deep slopes.
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a premier destination for encountering large, impressive groupers in a pristine environment. The park's protected status allows these fish to reach their full, magnificent size. The diverse underwater topography provides the perfect habitat for these apex reef predators.
For divers aspiring to explore world-class sites like Tubbataha or to advance their training to a professional level, building confidence with a trusted operator is key. Valm Divers provides a safe and fun pathway to becoming a skilled diver, with expert guidance rooted in the beautiful waters of Panglao, preparing you for any underwater adventure.
Witnessing a large Lapu-lapu emerge from its hiding spot is a thrilling highlight of diving in the Philippines. Their commanding yet patient behaviour makes them one of the most respected common fish in the Philippines.
While divers might be focused on colourful reef dwellers, no list of common fish in the Philippines would be complete without the humble Galunggong. Known as the Round Scad, this sleek, silver fish is more than just a common sight; it’s a cornerstone of the nation's fishing industry and a staple on the Filipino dinner table. These pelagic fish travel in massive, shimmering schools, creating a mesmerising spectacle for divers lucky enough to encounter them in open water.
Galunggong are easily identified by their elongated, torpedo-shaped bodies, silvery-blue colouration, and a distinct small black spot on their gill cover. They typically inhabit coastal and offshore waters, often schooling near the surface at night to feed on plankton. While they are a pelagic species, divers often encounter them near deep reefs and drop-offs where currents are strong.
For a chance to witness these impressive schools, the waters around the Apo Reef Natural Park offer an incredible opportunity. This vast reef system acts as a major highway for pelagic species. The strong currents and deep walls attract dense schools of Round Scad, often pursued by larger predators like tuna and jacks, making for a thrilling and dynamic underwater scene.
Experiencing the open-water action of Apo Reef or the vibrant biodiversity of beautiful Panglao requires a knowledgeable guide. For those seeking to advance their skills or even turn pro in a beautiful setting, training with a trusted centre like Valm Divers ensures a safe and fun journey into the world of professional diving.
Witnessing a massive, swirling ball of Galunggong is a powerful reminder of the sheer abundance of life in Philippine seas. Their importance both ecologically and culturally solidifies their place as one of the most significant common fish in the Philippines.
While many divers focus on the vibrant reefs, the Hito, or Asian Catfish, represents an equally important part of the Philippines' aquatic biodiversity, thriving in freshwater environments. This hardy, air-breathing fish is a cornerstone of local aquaculture and a common sight in freshwater lakes, rivers, and even rice paddies. Its ability to survive in low-oxygen conditions makes it one of the most resilient and widespread freshwater species in the country.
The Hito is easily identified by its elongated, dark grey or brown body, flattened head, and prominent whisker-like barbels around its mouth. Unlike most common fish in the Philippines that divers seek, the Hito prefers murky, slow-moving freshwater. It is often found burrowing in muddy bottoms or hiding amongst vegetation in canals, ponds, and marshes throughout the archipelago.
While not a typical reef dweller, adventurous divers exploring freshwater systems like the inland lakes of Coron, Palawan, or the clear rivers of Valencia, Negros Oriental, might encounter this unique fish. These freshwater explorations offer a different perspective on the country's diverse aquatic ecosystems, showcasing the life that thrives beyond the coral gardens.
For divers seeking to expand their skills beyond the reef, exploring different environments is key. Training with a professional and fun operator like Valm Divers can prepare you for any condition. Their expertise in Panglao, one of the Philippines' most beautiful islands, provides a perfect base to become a well-rounded dive professional.
Observing the Hito in its natural habitat provides a glimpse into the freshwater food web and the adaptability of local species. Its crucial role in both the ecosystem and local communities firmly cements its place on this list.
A powerhouse of the open ocean, tuna are among the most impressive pelagic fish you can encounter in the Philippines. These sleek, powerful predators are renowned for their speed and strength, making them a prized sight for divers and a cornerstone of the nation’s fishing industry. Spotting a school of Yellowfin or Bigeye tuna slicing through the blue is a truly unforgettable experience, showcasing the raw energy of the Philippine seas.
Tuna species like the Yellowfin (Thunnus albacares) are easily identified by their torpedo-shaped, metallic blue-black bodies, silver bellies, and distinctive bright yellow second dorsal and anal fins. These fast-swimming fish roam the deep, open waters, often congregating around underwater seamounts and drop-offs where currents bring an abundance of food. They are a common fish in the Philippines, especially in the rich waters of the Sulu and Celebes Seas.
For a high-adrenaline dive, the waters around Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park offer some of the best chances to see large tuna on the hunt. The park’s protected status and remote location create a pristine pelagic environment where these ocean giants thrive. The strong currents and dramatic walls make it a thrilling destination for advanced divers seeking big fish encounters.
While Tubbataha is for the experienced, divers aiming to build the confidence and skills needed for such challenging environments can find excellent training in beautiful Panglao, Bohol. A reputable dive centre like Valm Divers offers courses from beginner to pro level, ensuring you develop your abilities safely in a fun and supportive setting, all while exploring Panglao's beautiful reefs.
Witnessing the sheer force of a tuna school is a highlight for any diver. Their critical role in both the marine ecosystem and the local economy cements their place as one of the most significant fish in the Philippines.
Often schooling in vast, shimmering numbers, the Dalagang Bukid is a ubiquitous and vital part of the Philippine marine ecosystem. Its local name, meaning 'country maiden', is said to be inspired by the vibrant colours of a traditional Filipino woman's dress. For divers, encountering a massive, swirling school of these fish as they move in unison along a reef wall is a truly mesmerising spectacle and a hallmark of a healthy reef system.
The Yellow Tail Fusilier is easily identified by its sleek, bluish-silver body that culminates in a brilliant, deeply forked yellow tail. A distinct yellow patch often extends from its back down towards the pectoral fin. These fish are typically found in large aggregations around coral-rich drop-offs and reef slopes, where they feed on zooplankton in the water column. Their constant movement adds a dynamic energy to any dive.
The waters around Palawan, particularly near reef edges and submerged pinnacles, are exceptional for witnessing enormous schools of Dalagang Bukid. The currents in these areas bring a steady supply of nutrients, attracting these fusiliers and, in turn, the larger predators that hunt them. Bohol's vibrant reefs are also a prime habitat for spotting these beautiful, common fish in the Philippines.
Witnessing these magnificent schools requires a guide who understands local currents and fish behaviour. With their deep knowledge of the beautiful Panglao's dive sites, the team at Valm Divers can expertly position you for the most breathtaking underwater encounters, ensuring a safe and fun experience every time.
Observing the coordinated, fluid motion of a Dalagang Bukid school is an unforgettable part of the Philippine diving experience, showcasing the sheer abundance and vibrancy of the archipelago's marine life.
Sleek, powerful, and built for speed, the Tanigue is a prized pelagic hunter found in Philippine open waters. Known to anglers as Spanish Mackerel, this formidable predator is as famous for its exhilarating fight on a fishing line as it is for its delicious, firm meat, making it a star in both sport fishing and local cuisine. For divers, encountering one of these silver torpedoes is a thrilling, high-speed experience.
Tanigue are easily identified by their long, streamlined bodies, silvery sides marked with thin, wavy vertical bars, and a mouthful of razor-sharp teeth. As a pelagic species, they roam the open sea, often near the surface, chasing down schools of smaller fish like sardines and scad. They are commonly found near coastal reefs, drop-offs, and around FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices) where prey is abundant.
The open waters off La Union and the channels around the Visayan islands are excellent spots for encountering these swift predators. While not a typical reef-dweller, lucky divers may spot them passing by during blue-water drifts or near reef edges. Their presence signals a healthy and active marine ecosystem, full of the dynamic energy that makes Philippine diving so exciting.
For those captivated by the bigger picture of marine ecosystems and aspiring to guide others through them, advancing your skills is key. Training to become a Divemaster or Instructor in a diverse and beautiful environment like Panglao provides the perfect foundation for a professional career in scuba diving.
Observing a Tanigue in its natural element is a powerful reminder of the raw, untamed beauty of the ocean. Their role as a key predator makes them a vital and respected member of the common fish in the Philippines.
While many divers search for colourful reef dwellers, encountering a vast, shimmering school of Alumahan is a breathtaking spectacle. Known as Indian Mackerel, this streamlined, pelagic fish forms immense shoals in open water, moving as one cohesive, silver entity. Their synchronised movements are not just mesmerising to witness but are also a vital part of the marine ecosystem, serving as a primary food source for larger predators like tuna and sharks.
The Indian Mackerel has a torpedo-shaped body with a metallic greenish-blue back that fades to a silvery-white belly, often marked with faint spots or lines. They are typically found in large schools in coastal waters, feeding on plankton near the surface. While they are a common fish in the Philippines' open seas, divers often encounter them near reef drop-offs where currents bring in nutrient-rich water.
The waters of the Sulu Sea, particularly around the Zamboanga Peninsula and the Visayan Sea, are hotspots for these large pelagic schools. For divers, sites with strong currents like those around Malapascua, Cebu, offer a chance to witness these impressive shoals as they feed. Observing these fast-moving schools is a dynamic and thrilling experience.
For those captivated by the pelagic wonders of the Philippines, advancing your dive training can open up new possibilities. Becoming a dive professional in a vibrant location like beautiful Panglao with Valm Divers not only enhances your skills but immerses you in one of the world's most beautiful marine environments, preparing you for any underwater encounter.
Seeing a massive school of Alumahan part and reform around you is an unforgettable moment, showcasing the sheer scale and energy of the Philippines' marine biodiversity. Their importance to both the ocean and local communities makes them a significant and fascinating fish to encounter.
| Fish Species | Implementation Complexity 🔄 | Resource Requirements ⚡ | Expected Outcomes 📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bangus (Milkfish) | Moderate – pond/aquaculture system management | Moderate – requires water quality control | Steady production, high protein yield | Brackish/freshwater farming, household protein | Highly adaptable, strong market demand |
| Tilapia | Low – easy breeding and management | Low – tolerant, feeds on farm wastes/local feed | Rapid growth, affordable protein source | Small-scale farming, polyculture systems | Hardy, fast growth, wide water tolerance |
| Maya-maya (Red Snapper) | High – specialized fishing and handling | High – requires fishing gear and careful supply control | Premium market returns, export potential | Commercial and recreational fishing | Excellent taste, high market value |
| Lapu-lapu (Grouper) | High – long growth period & specialized culture | High – carnivorous feed and cage culture costs | High-value product, premium aquaculture species | Mariculture, high-end markets | Premium pricing, strong demand |
| Galunggong (Round Scad) | Low – open sea capture, seasonal fishing | Low – simple gear but perishable catch | High catch volume, affordable protein | Small pelagic fisheries, affordable household food | Affordable, high catch volumes |
| Hito (Catfish) | Low to Moderate – hardy species, backyard culture | Low – tolerant species, low-cost feeds | Fast growth, good for small-scale production | Freshwater backyard aquaculture, low-input systems | Hardy, fast growth, low production cost |
| Tuna (Various species) | Very High – requires deep sea vessels & equipment | Very High – high operational and fuel costs | High economic impact, large employment | Commercial tuna fishing, export-oriented | High economic value, diverse product forms |
| Dalagang Bukid (Yellow Tail Fusilier) | Moderate – reef fishing with small gear | Low to Moderate – accessible gear, reef dependent | Steady small-scale catch, delicate flavor | Small-scale municipal fisheries, reef-dependent | Good market demand, reef health indicator |
| Tanigue (Spanish Mackerel) | High – requires sport and commercial fishing gear | Moderate to High – storage and handling critical | Premium market, sport fishing tourism | Recreational and commercial fishing | Fast growth, high market value |
| Alumahan (Indian Mackerel) | Low – small pelagic fishery, seasonal capture | Low – simple nets, quick processing needed | Affordable nutrition, large catch volumes | Small-scale fisheries, food security | Affordable, high omega-3, versatile usage |
Our journey through the shimmering waters of the Philippines has revealed a spectacular cast of marine characters. From the sleek, silver form of the Galunggong schooling in the blue to the camouflaged artistry of the formidable Lapu-lapu lurking amongst the corals, the diversity is truly breathtaking. We have explored ten of the most common fish in the Philippines, each a vital thread in the archipelago's rich marine tapestry. Understanding these species, from the commercially significant Bangus to the vibrant Dalagang Bukid, is the first step towards a deeper appreciation of the underwater world.
Recognising these fish transforms a simple dive into an interactive story. It is the difference between seeing a "yellow fish" and identifying a Yellow Tail Fusilier, noting its behaviour and understanding its place in the reef ecosystem. This knowledge enriches every moment spent beneath the waves, turning observation into genuine connection and fostering a greater desire for conservation. The Philippines' underwater realm is a delicate, interconnected world, and as divers, we are privileged guests with a responsibility to understand and protect it.
Mastering fish identification is more than just a hobby; it is a skill that makes you a better, more aware diver. It enhances your safety by helping you recognise potentially venomous or territorial species, and it allows you to contribute to citizen science projects that monitor reef health. So, what comes next?
This is where your choice of dive centre becomes paramount. A great dive operation does more than just take you to a site; it educates, inspires, and ensures your safety above all else. In the heart of beautiful Panglao, one of the Philippines' premier diving destinations, you will find a team dedicated to this philosophy.
Valm Divers, a premier boutique dive shop located on Alona Beach, is renowned for cultivating a safe, supportive, and exceptionally fun atmosphere. They prioritise small group sizes and personalised attention, ensuring every diver, from the nervous first-timer to the seasoned veteran, has an unforgettable experience.
For those who feel the call of the ocean and wish to make it their career, Valm Divers is also a fantastic place to train as a scuba diving professional. They offer a complete range of SSI courses, guiding aspiring divers all the way to the esteemed instructor level. Imagine completing your professional training in the paradise setting of beautiful Panglao, surrounded by world-class dive sites and a team committed to your success. Your adventure, whether for a day or a lifetime, begins here. The common fish of the Philippines are waiting to be discovered, and there is no better place to start your exploration.
Ready to turn your knowledge into an unforgettable experience? Book your next dive or professional course with Valm Divers and let their expert guides introduce you to the incredible biodiversity of Panglao's reefs. Visit Valm Divers to plan your underwater adventure today
