BY Saipan Tribune

11 MHS students receive dive certificates
She said PADI Americas donated some equipment and grants to improve the school's newly established Marine Science class. The certification is part of the ...

Eleven Marianas High School student got their much-awaited diving certificates Friday afternoon at the MHS administration office.

PADI Americas regional manager Michael Janssen and training director Johnny Wetzstein handed over the certificates to the students. Both PADI Americas officials are on the island for consultation and monitoring work with diving operators in the CNMI.

MHS principal Karen Borja acknowledged the presence of the visiting officials and said group has been instrumental in providing assistance to the school. She said PADI Americas donated some equipment and grants to improve the school's newly established Marine Science class.

The certification is part of the Marine Science class being handled by resident faculty member James Phillips.

Borja, together with Phillips, handed over a plaque of appreciation to Janssen and Wetzstein for their tremendous help and inspiration to the students.

The diving certificates give to the students are for a maximum of 60 feet deep only and not for deeper dives such as the Grotto.

MHS students receiving their certificates were: Kalani Reyes, 16; Therese Polig, 16; Michelle Avila, 17; Amada Rabauliman, 17; Shikynah Quiatchon, 17; Gresil Race, 17; Rezne Wong, 16; Wilfredo Paez, 17; Jeannie Caballa, 16; Antonio Tiples, 16; and, Ralph Kileleman, 15.

Avila said she is looking forward to more diving activities in class and hopes to obtain advanced certificates in the future.

Reyes said she has had four dives already and is determined to get more.

Polig said her favorite diving spot as of now is at the Lau Lau Bay.

----------------------------------------------------------------------