SDI RESCUE DIVER
WHY ANILAO?
Anilao offers a mix of waves, boat traffic, slopes, and varying visibility — the perfect blend of realistic but safe conditions for practicing effective diver rescues.
Sheltered bays, calm entries, and predictable depth profiles give instructors the ability to run scenario-based training without unnecessary risk.
Because Anilao’s sites are only minutes apart, you can complete multiple rescue scenarios in different environments — shore, boat, current-affected, or deep-water — all in a single training day.
- Realistic Conditions for Real-World Rescue Skills — Anilao offers a mix of waves, boat traffic, slopes, and varying visibility — the perfect…
- Multiple Controlled Training Areas — Sheltered bays, calm entries, and predictable depth profiles give instructors the ability to run scenario-based…
- Fast Access to Every Training Site — Because Anilao’s sites are only minutes apart, you can complete multiple rescue scenarios in different…
WHY CHOOSE BLUE RIBBON?
Train with highly experienced SDI/TDI instructors who specialize in rescue-level coaching, stress management, and scenario-based training designed to build real confidence.
Our purpose-built 3-meter training pool and controlled shore entry points allow safe, progressive learning before full open-water scenarios begin.
Anilao gives us predictable visibility, accessible shore sites, and variable environments—perfect for practicing surface searches, panicked diver management, towing, and unresponsive diver drills without unnecessary hazards.
- Expert Instructors Focused on Real-World Rescue Skills — Train with highly experienced SDI/TDI instructors who specialize in rescue-level coaching, stress management, and scenario-based…
- Safety-Driven Training Environment — Our purpose-built 3-meter training pool and controlled shore entry points allow safe, progressive learning before…
- Realistic Rescue Scenarios in Ideal Conditions — Anilao gives us predictable visibility, accessible shore sites, and variable environments—perfect for practicing surface searches,…
WHAT YOU LEARN
Learn how to spot problems before they escalate — from stress indicators to early signs of equipment or buoyancy issues.
Develop the skills to respond effectively to distressed, tired, panicked, or unresponsive divers in both shallow and deep scenarios.
Practice proven search techniques and recovery procedures used by professionals during real-world missing diver situations.
Build confidence as you take control of simulated emergencies, coordinate responses, and manage rescue scenarios safely and calmly.
- Recognize & Prevent Diving Emergencies — Learn how to spot problems before they escalate — from stress indicators to early signs…
- Surface & Underwater Rescue Techniques — Develop the skills to respond effectively to distressed, tired, panicked, or unresponsive divers in both…
- Master Search Patterns & Recovery Skills — Practice proven search techniques and recovery procedures used by professionals during real-world missing diver situations.
- Emergency Management & Leadership — Build confidence as you take control of simulated emergencies, coordinate responses, and manage rescue scenarios…
COURSE STRUCTURE
Study the academics online so you can focus entirely on hands-on rescue training once you reach Anilao.
Practice the 10 core rescue skills in controlled conditions — stress-free, step-by-step — including tired diver assists, panicked diver responses, search patterns, and surfacing an unresponsive diver.
Apply your skills in two realistic, instructor-led rescue scenarios in the ocean. Build confidence in managing real-world diver emergencies from start to finish.
If you don’t have valid CPR/First Aid within the last 24 months, we can complete the FRTI Emergency Care course here at the resort while you take your your rescue course.
- Before you arrive – SDI eLearning — Study the academics online so you can focus entirely on hands-on rescue training once you…
- Pool & Shallow-Water Skill Development — Practice the 10 core rescue skills in controlled conditions — stress-free, step-by-step — including tired…
- Open Water Rescue Scenarios — Apply your skills in two realistic, instructor-led rescue scenarios in the ocean.
- Optional: First Aid & CPR Training (If Needed) — If you don’t have valid CPR/First Aid within the last 24 months, we can complete…
COURSE PREREQUISITES
Must be a certified SDI (or equivalent) Open Water Diver.
Minimum age: 15 years old.
Must have logged at least 20 dives before course start.
Must have a valid CPR/First Aid certification from the past 24 months — and if you don’t have one yet, we can complete the FRTI Adult & Child Emergency Care course right here at Blue Ribbon incorporated in your Rescue training.
You need to complete a Medical Form to make sure you are safe for diving, please review it prior to your course
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTORS
Jonathan Venn
Jon is the founder of Blue Ribbon Dive Resort in Anilao, Batangas, established in 2010. With over two decades of diving experience, he specializes in technical diving instruction and professional-level SDI/TDI courses.
A passionate explorer and dive educator, Jon is known for discovering new dive sites around Anilao and beyond. He enjoys deep-water exploration and the challenge of spotting elusive pelagic species rarely seen by recreational divers. Whether teaching advanced courses or leading technical expeditions, Jon’s focus is always on safety, precision, and adventure beneath the surface.
Ronel "Dang" Federico
Ronel, known to most as Dang, began his diving journey at Blue Ribbon Dive Resort and earned his Divemaster certification in 2016. With years of experience guiding both recreational and macro photographers around Anilao’s famous dive sites, Dang has developed a reputation for his incredible eagle eyes — spotting the tiniest frogfish, pygmy seahorses, and nudibranchs that others might miss.
In 2022, he became a certified SDI Instructor, sharing his deep knowledge and passion for marine life with new divers. Whether leading fun dives or teaching students, Dang’s calm, friendly nature and unmatched spotting skills make every dive both educational and unforgettable.
Jeff Zapata
Jeff has been part of the Blue Ribbon Dive Resort family since the early days, starting his professional journey as a Divemaster in 2011. With over a decade of experience exploring the reefs and slopes of Anilao, Jeff is renowned for his sharp spotting skills and calm, confident guidance underwater.
In 2023, Jeff achieved his Instructor certification, expanding his passion for diving into teaching. Known for his patience and detailed approach, he loves helping divers improve their skills while introducing them to Anilao’s incredible macro marine life — from colourful nudibranchs to rare frogfish. Whether guiding or teaching, Jeff ensures every dive is safe, relaxed, and full of discoveries.