Cebuana paddlers to cross Hilutungan channel

CEBU, Philippines —  Thirty brave female paddlers are set to cross the Hilutungan channel as part of a challenge dubbed as 'Pink Paddle Project' on March 31.

Organized by Women in Maritime Philippines and Island Buzz Philippines, the challenge is in line with the world's celebration of the International Women's Month.

"Through crossing the Hilutungan channel, we want to show that women have the strength and determination to overcome challenges," said Buzzy Budlong of Island Buzz.

"The Pink Paddlers, with age ranging from early 20s to early 50s, come from different background. Some are mothers, some are single individuals, some are active, and some wanted to rediscover their capabilities," added Budlong.

These brave females will traverse the 4.5-kilometer stretch of Hilutungan Channel, a deep water channel that separates Mactan Island from Olango Island. They will start from Mactan Newtown Beach and end at Olango Island.

Aside from crossing the channel, the female paddlers will also bring with them mangrove seedlings for the tree planting activity at the Olango Mangrove Sanctuary.

The planting activity will symbolize the nurturing nature of women, not just for their loved ones or for their own wellness but also for the environment.