Moalboal Freedivers Lead Major Beach Cleanup, Collecting 40-60 Kilos of Trash
In a significant environmental effort, freedivers in Moalboal, Cebu, conducted their monthly shoreline cleanup on Monday, February 2, 2026, successfully gathering an estimated 40 to 60 kilos of trash. This initiative, which filled approximately 16 to 18 sacks, was organized by the Moalboal Freediving Association and led by freediver and Philippine Coast Guard auxiliary member Niccolo Henson.
Volunteer Efforts and Hazard Removal
Around 40 dedicated volunteers participated in the cleanup, working in clusters along the beach to remove a variety of debris. The collected trash primarily consisted of plastics, broken glass, and discarded slippers. Additionally, the team focused on eliminating underwater hazards near the Mermaid statue, such as sea urchins and sharp shells, to reduce injury risks for swimmers and tourists visiting the popular coastal area.
Data Collection and Global Impact
The collected garbage was meticulously logged using the Ocean Conservancy's Clean Swell app, a global data-collection platform designed to track and monitor marine debris worldwide. This practice began in August 2025 as a small cleanup by a few freedivers and has since evolved into a community-wide initiative. SunStar Cebu first reported on this effort in September 2025, highlighting the group's commitment to environmental stewardship through systematic data recording.
Broader Goals for Freediving Safety and Community Empowerment
Beyond the cleanup, Henson emphasized that the group aims to enhance freediving safety standards in Moalboal by institutionalizing internationally aligned protocols. This includes empowering the local freediving community through various initiatives, such as:
- Training opportunities for divers and instructors
- Community programs focused on environmental awareness
- Greater representation for local instructors, safety divers, and operators
These efforts not only contribute to cleaner beaches but also foster a safer and more sustainable environment for both residents and tourists in Moalboal.
