Paddle Class: Learn How to Kayak

Harvey is the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Kayak Philippines, a leading outdoor adventure and paddle sports organization dedicated to promoting kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sustainable water-based tourism in the Philippines. With years of experience in paddling, expedition planning, event management, and outdoor education, Harvey has played a significant role in introducing and developing kayaking as both a recreational activity and a competitive sport across the country.

As a passionate kayaker, expedition leader, and instructor, Harvey is committed to sharing his knowledge, skills, and love for the outdoors with paddlers of all ages and experience levels. He believes that kayaking is more than just a sport it is a way to connect with nature, build confidence, promote teamwork, and inspire environmental stewardship. Through Kayak Philippines, he has organized numerous paddling expeditions, workshops, safety and rescue training programs, corporate team-building activities, and community outreach initiatives.

Harvey's teaching philosophy focuses on safety, skill development, and creating meaningful experiences on the water. He is dedicated to mentoring aspiring paddlers and helping individuals discover the joy of kayaking while fostering a culture of responsible and sustainable outdoor adventure. His mission is to continue growing the paddling community in the Philippines and inspire more people to explore the country's rich waterways through the sport of kayaking.

Rene is an experienced kayaker, outdoor enthusiast, and kayaking journey began in the early 1990s while attending the University of Texas in Austin, USA, where he completed a whitewater kayaking course. Since then, he has developed extensive experience paddling a variety of rivers and waterways, building a strong foundation in whitewater, river, and sea kayaking.

During his years in Texas, Rene regularly paddled the Guadalupe, San Marcos, and Colorado Rivers, while also exploring slalom kayaking through the local paddling community in Austin. Committed to continuous learning, he completed swiftwater rescue training and participated in advanced clinics on paddling techniques, rescue skills, and river safety conducted by respected instructors and visiting experts.

Rene further expanded his paddling expertise by completing intermediate and advanced whitewater kayaking courses at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in North Carolina, where he paddled the Nantahala, Ocoee, French Broad, and Nolichucky Rivers. He also trained in sea kayaking, surf kayaking, and Greenland rolling at Kayak Academy in Washington, broadening his skills across multiple paddling disciplines.

Since returning to the Philippines, Rene has explored many of the country's premier paddling destinations, including Hundred Islands National Park, Taal Lake, Subic Bay, Manila Bay, Palawan, the Bulsa River in Tarlac, the Balanac River in Laguna, and the Cagayan River in Quirino. As a officer of Kayak Philippines, he is passionate about sharing his knowledge, promoting paddling safety, and helping others develop the skills and confidence to enjoy kayaking in rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.

Jun Bert is an adventurous water sports enthusiast and outdoor explorer with a deep passion for a wide range of aquatic activities, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), freediving, and sailing. Whether paddling across tranquil lakes, navigating open seas, diving beneath the surface, or harnessing the wind under sail, Jun embraces every opportunity to connect with nature and experience the freedom of the outdoors.

As an active member of the paddling and outdoor community, Jun is passionate about sharing his knowledge, skills, and experiences with others. Through kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, he enjoys helping participants develop confidence, improve their technical abilities, and discover the joy of exploring waterways safely and responsibly. His enthusiasm for outdoor education and adventure inspires both beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.

Freediving has strengthened Jun's focus, discipline, and appreciation for the ocean's beauty, while sailing has cultivated his understanding of weather, navigation, and the powerful relationship between wind and water. Together, these experiences have shaped his holistic approach to outdoor adventure and environmental stewardship.

Through his continued involvement in kayaking expeditions, SUP activities, freediving, and sailing, Jun remains committed to promoting an active lifestyle, responsible outdoor recreation, and a lifelong passion for exploring the natural world.

Jon is a passionate kayak fisherman, outdoor enthusiast, and advocate for responsible recreational fishing. His love for the water began at an early age while growing up in a coastal community, where he spent countless mornings along the shoreline observing the tides, studying the weather, and developing a deep appreciation for the marine environment. These early experiences eventually led him to discover the unique challenges and rewards of kayak fishing.

For Jon, kayak fishing is more than simply catching fish it is about embracing the tranquility of nature, understanding the movement of the water, and developing the skills and patience required to become a successful angler. Through years of experience, he has refined his techniques by learning from local fishermen, experimenting with various fishing methods and lures, and mastering the balance, stealth, and strategy that make kayak fishing both exciting and rewarding.

As an active member of the kayak fishing community, Jon is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experiences with fellow anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. He advocates for safe and responsible fishing practices, environmental stewardship, and sustainable use of marine resources. Through education, mentorship, and participation in kayak fishing events and expeditions, he continues to inspire others to experience the adventure, challenge, and fulfillment that kayak fishing offers.