Chester Nicolie “Coach Nic” Acuzar is raising the bar for instruction and safety in the local water sports community, as Puerto Princesa City’s first Molchanovs-certified freediving teacher.
An individual who has been officially taught and certified by Molchanovs Freediving Education, an internationally acclaimed method of studying freediving established by multiple-world-record holder Alexey Molchanov, is known as a Molchanovs-certified free driving teacher.
“I was always in the water as a kid—snorkeling, fishing, exploring reefs. Those early experiences shaped my love for the ocean and led me to freediving,” Acuzar, who was raised in the coastal town of Roxas, said.
He pursued certification with Molchanovs, a global education system known for its athlete-driven, science-based approach.
The process included advanced rescue training, freediving theory, coaching methodologies, and mental conditioning.
“Molchanovs focuses on connection, discipline, and safety,” he said.
“It’s not just about going deep; it’s about teaching others how to dive mindfully and responsibly,” Acuzar added.
Freediving in Puerto Princesa has grown in popularity in recent years, and Acuzar wants to help establish the city as a freediving hub in the country.
Through his school, Paragua Freedivers, he offers training for beginners and advanced divers, promotes marine conservation, and mentors local coaches.
“Being the first instructor here means I get to introduce a new way of exploring the sea—one that emphasizes self-awareness and ocean respect,” he claimed.
Acuzar plans to partner with schools, conservation groups, and tourism stakeholders to expand freediving education and certify more local instructors under the Molchanovs system.
“You don’t have to be an expert to begin. Just be open, curious, and willing to learn. The ocean is waiting,” he said.
Paragua Freedivers is a Puerto Princesa-based freediving school led by Coach Acuzar.
Offering Molchanovs-certified courses, guided dives, and community programs, it aims to promote safe, accessible, and meaningful freediving in Palawan.
