By Veronica O. Chua, Vice President – CPU Mountaineering Society

The CPU Mountaineering Society participated in the 8th Aklan Hammock Festival 2026 held on May 2–3 in Navitas, Numancia, Aklan, supporting the 8th Upland Outreach Mission through ecotourism promotion, coastal clean-up, environmental learning, and community engagement activities.

On May 2–3, 2026, the CPU Mountaineering Society (CPUMS) proudly supported the 8th Aklan Hammock Festival 2026 benefiting the 8th Upland Outreach Mission, held along the scenic coastline of Navitas, Numancia, Aklan.

Now in its eighth year, the Aklan Hammock Festival is part of a long-standing initiative spanning 17 years across the 17 municipalities of Aklan. The festival continues to serve as a platform for promoting community-based ecotourism while functioning as a major fundraising effort for humanitarian programs, particularly Pagbueoligan 2026, Aklan TREKKERS’ flagship upland outreach in Libacao.

Anchored on the theme “Nets & Knots: Weaving Stories of the Coast,” this year’s festival emphasized the interconnectedness of coastal and upland communities. Participants were immersed in a variety of activities designed to foster environmental awareness, creativity, and social engagement.

The event commenced with a coastal clean-up initiative in the form of an interactive game, where participants collected and properly segregated waste materials into biodegradable, recyclable, non-biodegradable, and hazardous categories within a limited time. This activity highlighted the importance of responsible waste management and collective environmental action, demonstrating how simple actions can create meaningful environmental impact.

The opening program featured messages from key local officials, including the Municipal Mayor of Numancia, representatives from the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), the Barangay Captain of Navitas, and the founders of Aklan TREKKERS. Their remarks underscored the significance of collaboration in advancing sustainable environmental initiatives.

This was followed by “LIKHAng Kalikasan: Terracotta Sculpting,” where participants molded clay into turtle figures under the guidance of a terracotta artist from Bacolod. The activity highlighted both creativity and awareness of marine life, particularly sea turtle conservation, which was further emphasized during the Marine Conservation Talk conducted after lunch.

In the afternoon, participants engaged in an Amazing Race x Hampang Saribuhay, where teams navigated various stations filled with interactive challenges. The activity fostered teamwork, strategy, and camaraderie, leaving participants with shared memories that extend beyond the event itself.

Another session, “Stories from the Seas: Human Library,” brought a new perspective where local fisherfolk shared personal narratives about their lives and livelihoods. Participants translated these stories into art by painting canvases inspired by what they heard. This meaningful exchange deepened appreciation for the resilience, knowledge, and dedication of coastal communities, while shedding light on sustainable fishing practices and the importance of marine stewardship.

As evening fell, participants enjoyed a hearty seafood dinner, followed by raffle draws, music, a bonfire, and community dancing. The night became a celebration of unity, bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds to share laughter, stories, and a collective sense of purpose.

The second day began with an energizing Zumba session led by the Zumba Dabarkads. Although the terracotta baking was not completed due to weather conditions, the artist demonstrated the process. The day continued with a Mangrove Tour and Talk led by MENRO officers, where participants learned about mangrove species, proper planting techniques, and their critical role in coastal protection. The activity also included a continuation of the clean-up effort along the mangrove estuary.

The entire experience was rich with learning, advocacy, and collaboration. It reinforced the importance of environmental conservation and highlighted how collective efforts can create lasting impact, not only for the communities of Aklan but also for neighboring regions.

As the event concluded, it left participants with a powerful reminder: the environment thrives when people actively care for it. Through shared responsibility and sustained action, we can ensure that nature remains a place where both communities and ecosystems flourish.