Hi everyone! I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the new in-house marine biologist here at Atmosphere Resorts & Spa. Taking over from Reiss (who left some pretty big fins to fill!) is both an honor and an exciting challenge. If we haven’t met yet, I hope to connect with many of you soon—whether that’s on a dive, at one of my weekly marine biology talks, or just walking around the resort.
I’ll be sharing regular updates here on the blog, so expect plenty of marine life content, conservation insights, and reef discoveries. But first, here’s a bit about me: my background, what brought me here, and what I’m excited to dive into during my time at Atmosphere.
I Experienced My First Dive at Age 9… and Never Looked Back
I grew up internationally, spending time throughout my childhood in Nepal, the Philippines, Ghana, the U.S., and Thailand. Living in such diverse places shaped my deep appreciation for nature and different cultures, but it was always the ocean that truly captivated me.
My love for the sea started early: I went diving for the first time when I was just 9 years old in Mexico. Despite constantly slipping out of my too-big BCD, the only thing I remember from that Discover Scuba experience is pure joy. Not long after, I got PADI certified in Belize. That feeling of being underwater, surrounded by curious fish and vibrant coral, was instantly life-changing. It never left me, and only grew stronger with time.
Tamara on her first PADI DSD as a child – quite the pro already!
From Coral Reefs to Classrooms and Policy Rooms
My academic and professional journey has always followed one guiding current: understanding and appreciating the profoundly complex relationship between people and the ocean.
During my university studies in the Netherlands, I discovered a passion for science communication and interdisciplinary research. I became especially interested in how human societies are both deeply connected to and dependent on the ocean, and how we can make ocean governance more inclusive, equitable, and effective.
While interning at a reef conservation program in Thailand, I learned about coral ecology, long-term reef monitoring, and citizen science initiatives. I also got hands-on experience with projects like electrified artificial reef development (an innovative way to help coral reefs recover and thrive). I even completed my thesis on the management effectiveness of marine protected areas in Thailand.
I’ve worked at both the global policy level—organizing events at the United Nations Ocean Conference and lobbying U.S. congressmembers for stronger ocean protection measures—and at the local education level, visiting schools to talk to students about plastic pollution. These experiences deepened my passion for making marine conservation engaging and accessible to all.
Returning to Dauin, Where Research Meets Community
Last year, I was lucky enough to be a research fellow with the Institute for Marine Research (IMR) right here in Dauin, a grassroots organization partnered with Atmosphere. At IMR, I focused on coral identification and practiced field research techniques specific to this biodiverse region of the Philippines. The experience was fulfilling and it sparked my desire to stay here, grow roots, and continue contributing to the local marine conservation scene.
Soon after, I completed my PADI Scuba Instructor training with Instructor Development Philippines (IDP), right here at Atmosphere! So in a way, this role feels like a full-circle moment, bringing together my love for science, teaching, and diving.
Learning the ropes as a PADI Dive Instructor with Instructor Development Philippines
What I’ll Be Doing at Atmosphere
No two days are exactly the same in this role, and that’s one of the things I love most. You might see me:
- Guiding marine biology-focused dives
- Teaching our unique Critters of Dauin specialty course
- Giving weekly marine talks
- Snapping photos of nudibranchs, ghost pipefish, and anything else I can spot (my camera roll is full after 2 weeks on the job!)
- Brainstorming ways to make marine science more engaging for people of all ages and all backgrounds
One initiative I’m especially excited about is developing a marine biology program for children. As someone with Filipino roots, it means a lot to me to be back in this region, and I’m passionate about increasing youth engagement and ocean literacy, both locally as well as globally.
Tamara educating children about the ocean, reefs and suastainability at ONE International School in Dauin
Let’s Dive In Together!
If you’re curious about coral reefs, critter behavior, marine conservation, or just want to geek out about ocean life—I’m your person! Don’t hesitate to say hi if you see me around the resort, or join one of my talks or dives. I’d love to meet you, swap stories, and help you get even the most out of your underwater adventures here in Dauin.
You can also follow my journey and ocean finds on Instagram: @underwater.tam
Here’s to many amazing dives and discoveries ahead!
