What does it feel like to surf?
For 16-year-old Aj Kyle Maliao of Brgy. Sabang North, that question has long been answered by the waves that shaped his childhood and continue to define his dreams.
Maliao began surfing at the age of 11, inspired by the local surfers he often watched gliding across the waters near his home.
“Bali han una, mayda ko hat kinikita nga mga surfers dida han amon front ocean, bali dida po ak hat na-inspire haira. Maupay ngay-an ini nga sports,” he shared.
Now, after five years in the sport, Maliao has made a name for himself among Eastern Samar’s rising young surfers.
He joined his first local surfing competition in Borongan City in 2023, where he secured third place, marking his debut as one of the most promising surfers in the area.
Since then, his passion and discipline have brought him to several competitions both within and outside the province.
Currently a Grade 11 electrical installation and maintenance student, Maliao balances academics and surfing with determination.
“Every time nga nakakauli ako tikang ha competition, ginko-comply ko dayon an akon lessons,” he said, adding that his parents have been supportive in allowing him to compete.
In 2024, Maliao reached the finals of the Calicoan Odyssey Waves Competition in Guiuan, where he finished second in the junior shortboard category.
His dedication also earned him the opportunity to represent Eastern Samar in national competitions, including Cloud 9 and Tuazon Surfing Competitions in Siargao Island, Ilocos Sur, and Baler.
These events gathered some of the country’s best surfers, giving the young athlete valuable exposure and experience against top-tier competitors.
According to Maliao, one of the toughest challenges in surfing competitions is maintaining energy during long heats.
During one of his competitions, he also experienced an accident when his surfboard hit his head. “Salamat han Ginoo nga na-rescue ak,” he recalled, crediting his calmness and the quick assistance of his colleagues for his safety.
Despite the risks, Maliao remains firm in his love for the sport.
“Actually, makadamo na ak hin kahimasuol ha akon pag-surf, pero kay love ko man ini nga sport, syempre dire ak ma-give up,” he said.
Budget constraints also add to the challenge, but Maliao stays optimistic, saying they continue to compete in various locations this year in hopes of qualifying for the Philippine team and representing the country.
Maliao expressed his gratitude to the provincial government, particularly Gov. RV Evardone and the Evardone family, for their continuous support to local athletes.
As he continues to represent the province in national events, Maliao encourages young aspiring surfers to stay committed to their goals.
“It akon message hit mga kabataan nga karuyag mag-compete hit national tapos maging champion one day, it ak masisiring la ha ira — pirme la kamo mag-surf, more practice and training, and most especially, discipline,” he said.
For Maliao, surfing is not only a sport but also a way to find peace and focus. “Maupay ha feelings, baga napawara hin problema pag na-ride hit balod,” he said.
With determination, faith, and the unending call of the sea, the young surfer from Borongan continues to ride not just the waves, but also his dreams for himself and his province. (TAC-GBP)
