Leyte’s skim boarders advocate environmental protection

TANAUAN, Leyte, May 25 (PNA) -- Local surfers in this coastal town are not only sports enthusiasts, but environment champions as well.

Jamaica Salceda, ambassador of Sol Shred Skim, an international organization of skim boarders, said surfing is a lifestyle for them who live in coastal communities.

Last week, skim boarding was again revived by local organizers here. Young surfers in the region are hopeful that they will once again gather to prepare for some competitions here and abroad.

“We enjoy riding the fantastic waves coming from the ocean and as it raises a liquid wall or tunnel. However, if the seawater is dirty and the beach has a lot of garbage, we do not feel refreshed and don’t enjoy playing. We, surfers are sensitive to environmental issues,” Salceda said.

“As environmental activists, we are serious about environmental issues and coastal protection and that we work and help some non government organizations in protesting against coastal pollution,” 

Jamaica said.

Local surfers in this town started focusing on taking people closer to the nature through tree planting activities, coastal cleanup, and garbage segregation.

“We all know that we have limitations, but we do believe that engaging the kids and their families is the way forward,” she said.

She recognizes the contributions of several environmentally-proactive groups across the region and acknowledges every one of them for sharing their expertise. (PNA)

SQM/JAZMIN BONIFACIO/EGR