Surfers from Calicoan Island in Guiuan, Eastern Samar received PHP747,108 in assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) under its integrated livelihood program.

The beneficiaries – three surfing schools and a surfboard maker – received the amount, which was for the purchase of lesson boards and surf equipment, on Oct. 9.

The recipients were ABCD Surf, Calicoan Local Surfers, The Backyad SURF, and surfboard maker Samrayan Surfboard.

The turnover was part of the ongoing 2024 Calicoan Odyssey Waves Surfing National in Calicoan Island, municipal administrator Kinna Kwan said in a phone interview.

“This ensures the sustainability of the local surfing community and the surfing industry in Calicoan, and not just every surfing competition,” Kwan said on Thursday.

DOLE extended the assistance after the surfing organizations in Calicoan submitted a proposal they drafted during an orientation on May 3.

The assistance will help local surfers build sustainable livelihoods while promoting eco-tourism and fostering a thriving local surfing culture, helping boost the growing surf tourism in Calicoan Island, according to Kwan.

Meanwhile, about 140 surfers from various parts of the country are in Calicoan Island for the 2024 Calicoan Odyssey Waves Surfing Nationals, a Grade 2 national surfing competition that runs from Oct. 8 to 13.

On its 14th year, the event is organized by Guiuan locals and Calicoan Island’s local surfing organizations – ABCD Surf, Calicoan Local Surfers, Samrayan Surfboards, and The Backyard Surf Co.

It is sponsored by the 4Ps Party-list, Andok’s Corp., Sandirini Resort, Calicoan Villa, Lucky Ellie, and Fin Cafe.

The competition is sanctioned by the United Philippine Surfing Association and recognized by the Philippine Sports Commission and the POC – Philippine Olympic Committee – Olympic.PH.

A total cash prize of PHP606,000 is at stake in the competition.

The contest takes place at the famed ABCD break – a reef break known for its powerful left-handers and fast, challenging waves. The break takes its name from the Advance Base Construction Depot, a critical site for Allied Forces during World War II, adding a unique historical layer to the event.

Mayor Annaliza Gonzales-Kwan continues to champion Guiuan as a top-tier destination for surfing and historical tourism.

Situated just three hours from Tacloban City, Guiuan offers visitors the best of both worlds – adventure and culture in one breathtaking location.

Beyond the waves, Calicoan Island offers a host of attractions for visitors to explore. A short trek leads to Linao Cave, where travelers can cool off in its natural pools.

To the north, one would find one of the 33 historical markers along the Route of Ferdinand Magellan, unveiled in 2021 during the 500th Anniversary of the First Circumnavigation of the World. These landmarks reflect the island’s deep ties to global history. (PNA)