Hello iainwilliams,
Have registered to this board just now. Currently, I live in
the Philippines and already have visited places you have
mentioned.
Malapascua is the best place to see sharks especially
Thresher and white tip. If you are lucky, you might be able
to spot hammer head off the edge of Monad Shoal. Besides
that, macro at Light House is great. You are guaranteed
to see mandarin fish and sea horse. There are wrecks and
caves around the area, but don't expect any coral gardens.
By looking at your profile, this destination could be the most
enjoyable place.
If you like "tropical diving", then Balicasag Island off the shore
of Alona Beach, Bohol would be the ideal place. School of
barracudas and jacks are crusing. Nice beach resort, and can
go for some tour such as Chocolate Hills or dolphin watching.
Cabilao is about the same. Nice corals at shallow water, and
there's a colony of garden eel. Biggest prize is either school
of barracuda or big napoleon, so not much. Don't expect to
see the hammer heads!
Moalboal, Pescador Island is always fun to dive. White tip in
deep, colorful anthias, and the cathedral cave. If you dive
Cebu side, turtles are guaranteed and whale shark if lucky.
I wouldn't recommend Dumaguete since Apo Island is similar
to Balicasag, but with longer voyage.
In every places, Sea Explorers are operating. You might be
able to get a better rate by contacting their Cebu office and
arrange the whole trip. If you plan to decide the operator
after checking their shop, then prior reservation of
accomodation is a must for Bohol and Moalboal during the
holiday.
If you have any other questions, let me know.
Best,
spyder_zagato@cebu