MANILA, Philippines – Sixty-eight year old Boracay native Luisa Gomboc, known for diving for sea urchins or “tirik”, has found renewed hope and support amidst the challenges brought by the pandemic.
Luisa was able to transform her life and livelihood with assistance from Sam “SV” Verzosa.
During the pandemic, Luisa faced restrictions that prevented her from continuing her previous job as a beach front masseuse
As a senior citizen, she was particularly affected by the strict measures, but the beaches remained accessible.
Seeking a way to sustain herself, she began diving for sea urchins, which provided both income and a way to maintain her health through regular swimming.
Recognizing Luisa’s resilience and the uniqueness of her work, Sam “SV” Verzosa saw an opportunity to learn from and support her.
Luisa generously shared her expertise with SV, teaching him the basics of gathering sea urchins from rocks under the sea.
Sea urchins, however, are not always available, and during those times, Luisa turns to selling “kangkong.”
To support Luisa in her endeavors, SV provided her with a “kabuhayan package” that included a complete bigasan (rice business) setup with signage, weighing scale, and sacks of rice.
Luisa likewise received a grocery package, a TV, an electric fan, and a mattress to help improve her home and living conditions.
“Talagang na-touch po ako sa kwento ni Nanay Luisa dahil sa kanyang tibay at dedikasyon,” said SV.
“Na imbes panghinaan ng loob dahil nawalan siya ng kabuhayan noong pandemic, naghanap siya ng paraan para kumita.”
