The pristine beaches of Zamboanga Peninsula are carving out a new identity as a hub for water sports enthusiasts, thanks to a groundbreaking initiative led by the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 9. In collaboration with Sali-Argao Boardriding and Adventure Inc. from Argao, Cebu, the DOT launched a series of skimboarding clinics, signaling a vibrant future for this exhilarating water sport in the region.
The inaugural event, held on November 14, 2024, at Arrow Hives Beach Resort in Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte, set the stage for what promises to be a transformative journey for local communities. Designed for both beginners and enthusiasts, the training sessions introduced participants to the fundamentals of skimboarding, with hands-on practice on Sindangan’s scenic shoreline.
Participants from the municipalities of Leon Postigo, Salug, and Sindangan enthusiastically took part, their laughter and determination echoing against the rhythm of the waves. Guided by expert trainers from Sali-Argao, the event ignited a passion for skimboarding and laid the groundwork for nurturing local talent.
Building on this momentum, a second session unfolded on November 15, 2024, at Q Sand Beach House in Labason. Twenty-one participants, including resort owners, employees, and water sports enthusiasts from Liloy, Gutalac, and Labason, joined the clinic. Their day began with skill-building exercises and culminated in an exciting afternoon of real-time practice under expert guidance.
The program’s success was amplified by the support of Labason’s local government, with Mayor Jelster Jed Quimbo attending the closing ceremony. His presence reinforced the municipality’s commitment to embracing water sports as a key driver of tourism and community engagement.
Skimboarding: A Regional Identity in the Making
This initiative goes beyond just teaching a sport; it aims to position skimboarding as a signature attraction of the Zamboanga Peninsula. By cultivating local talent and enhancing skills, the program is fostering a culture of water sports while also promoting tourism.
For participants, the experience was transformative. Local skimboarding enthusiasts not only honed their skills but also forged a deeper connection with their environment. Resort owners and employees gained insights into leveraging skimboarding as a unique attraction, adding a dynamic element to their hospitality offerings.
A Vision for Water Sports Tourism
With continuous support and collaboration, Region 9 is poised to emerge as a top-tier destination for water sports enthusiasts. The unspoiled beaches of Zamboanga Peninsula, coupled with its vibrant community spirit, offer the perfect backdrop for skimboarding and other recreational activities.
Through initiatives like these, the DOT and its partners are not just building a sport—they’re shaping a regional identity. Skimboarding in Zamboanga Peninsula is more than a pastime; it’s a wave of opportunity, connecting communities and inviting the world to experience the thrill of its shores.
As the waves continue to roll, so does the promise of a brighter, more exciting future for tourism in this region. So grab your board, head to the beach, and ride the wave of innovation in Zamboanga Peninsula.
