MANILA, Philippines - The Magazine Show, a lifestyle radio program hosted by model Raya Mananquil and international surfer-photographer Mark Dimalanta on NU 107 FM, every Saturday from 12 noon to 1 p.m., gets deep into the heart of Philippine surfing today with pioneers Paolo Soler and Lui Tortuya.
Paolo Manuel Andaya Soler is the man behind the successful surf instructional course, Philippine Surfing Academy. Paolo Soler, who earned a degree in entrepreneurial management from the University of Asia & the Pacific, is at the forefront of surf instruction here in the country. Paolo was the first Filipino to be certified by the Academy of Surfing Instructors Australia. He has taught over 3,000 students at PSA’s wave-pool in Club Manila East, as well as several hundreds who have participated in instructional “surf safaris” to Real, Quezon. He focuses on the art and discipline of the sport and stresses safety and respect in the water. His passion for the sport has helped to define the direction of Philippine surfing.
Lui Tortuya, originally from Long Beach, California is the father of the Philippine custom surfboard, and the founding president of Manila Surfers’ Association. Since 2003, he has been the person responsible for providing made-to-order, hand-shaped surfboards in the country. An artisan who cherishes his craft within an industry that has been dominated by mass production, Lui makes works of art for his 540 Surf Co brand.
Because of their intimate relationship with the ocean, each has been an advocate for the conservation and protection of our coastlines. Tune in today to NU 107 FM at 12 noon to hear what’s on the horizon for Philippine surfing.