Freedivers in Moalboal unite to clear 60 kilos of trash from popular shoreline
A group of freedivers in Moalboal, Philippines, removed an estimated 40 to 60 kilos of trash from the shoreline on February 2, 2026. The cleanup, led by Niccolo Henson and the Moalboal Freediving Association, involved around 40 volunteers working together in small teams. Their efforts focused on reducing hazards for swimmers and tourists near the popular Mermaid statue.
The initiative began in August 2025 as a small project by a handful of freedivers. Since then, it has expanded into a wider community effort, drawing more participants each month. Volunteers collected rubbish such as plastics, broken glass, discarded slippers, sea urchins, and sharp shells—enough to fill 16 to 18 sacks.
All gathered waste was recorded using the Ocean Conservancy's Clean Swell app. This tool helps track and monitor marine debris on a global scale, ensuring the data contributes to broader environmental research.
Beyond cleanups, the group is pushing to improve freediving safety in Moalboal. Plans include setting up internationally recognised protocols and offering training for local instructors, safety divers, and operators. They also aim to strengthen the freediving community through education, outreach programmes, and better representation for those involved in the sport.
The February cleanup marked another step in the group's ongoing efforts to protect Moalboal's coastline. By removing hazardous waste and promoting safer freediving practices, the initiative continues to grow in participation and impact. Future activities will focus on sustaining these efforts while expanding community involvement.
