Game proves Boracay green algae a summer ‘staple’

What appears to be a traditional game among locals proves that green algae had been existent at the white-sand beaches in the island for a long time.

Residents young and old recently joined the “lumot battle,” which a local official organized to “revive” an activity diminished by modern entertainment.

Lumot is the local term for the green algae that grow prominently at the beaches during the dry season, also the “peak season” when thousands of local and foreign tourists flock to the island for summer excursions.

While many tourists are turned off by the slimy algae, locals actually revel at their presence, according to a town councilor.

Around 50 residents, young and old alike, joined the lumot battle — essentially, the players grabbed handfuls of the green algae and throw them at each other — that lasted around 30 minutes.

The lumot battle should remind the modern youngsters of what their ancestors played when there was no television or social media yet, said Sangguniang Bayan member Datu Sumndad of Malay, Aklan.

“The lumot battle has been a favorite [summer game] of Boracay children in the 1900s,” said Sumndad. “The practice has faded over the years because of technology. The young generation now should be reminded what was once a [cultural activity].”

Meanwhile Boracay Island administrator Rowen Aguirre said they plan to hold the lumot battle every dry season.