In the bustling world of fast-paced fashion, one brand stands out, not just for its unique designs and merchandise but f...
AKAW Surf Co.: Riding the Waves of Success and Sustainability

AKAW Surf Co is a homegrown surf brand based in Cebu, Philippines that has been making waves in the surfing community since its inception in 2018. The founder, RV Camaso, is passionate about the ocean and the surfing industry with a vision to create high-quality surf gear and apparel that reflects the vibrant surf culture and promotes an active and adventurous lifestyle.
When asked about the inspiration behind AKAW Surf Co., RV shared, "Because of my passion about the ocean, the surfing culture & lifestyle, and instead of patronizing those big international brands out there, I’ve decided to create a local surf brand that offers high-quality, durable surf gear, apparel and accessories along with a dream of becoming the prime surf and lifestyle brand in the Philippines. I've always been drawn to the vibrant surf culture and the connection between the ocean, music, nature, and the surfing community. I wanted to capture that essence and create products that reflect the lifestyle and spirit of surfers."
AKAW product line stands out from the competition with its fusion of surfing, streetwear, and music. Offering a range of premium gear, apparel, and accessories including rashguards, dry bags, beach towels, boardshorts, slippers, belts, tshirts, trucket caps, water bottles, surf wax, sunglasses, and tote bags. The brand caters to both surf enthusiasts, ocean/sea-loving, and fashion-forward individuals. RV emphasized, "Our goal is to create a lifestyle brand that embodies the spirit of surfing and to promote a sustainable surfing tourism both locally and abroad. We want our products to appeal to ocean lovers and to the board riding community, promoting an active and vibrant lifestyle."
"I wanted to capture that essence and create products that reflect the lifestyle and spirit of surfers."
The creative process behind developing new products at AKAW Surf Co. involves a meticulous approach. RV explained, "We go through several stages, from brainstorming and research to prototyping, sampling, and refining. We draw inspiration from customer feedback, market research, and the ever-evolving trends in the surfing, streetwear, and music culture. Our aim is to create products that not only meet the needs of our customers but also reflect their unique sense of style and love for the ocean."
Reflecting on their journey, RV shared some key milestones, saying, "We started small, selling t-shirts through social platforms and participating in mini events and gigs. But opening our store at Ayala Malls Central Bloc, I.T Park Cebu was a significant moment for us. It provided us with a prime location and easy accessibility, helping us reach a broader audience. We were also proud to be featured in CebuPot's Japanese website and magazine, which highlighted our status as one of the few local surf brands in Cebu. Additionally, being invited as panelists for the Nakakalocal event organized by Philippine Star was a great honor."
Community engagement and sustainability are core values for AKAW Surf Co. The brand aims to promote sustainable surf tourism and give back to the local community. RV explained, “We actively support coastal clean-up drives to preserve our pristine beaches and ocean. We also sponsor local surfers during events, nurturing their talent and providing them with opportunities to excel. Additionally, we donate customized facemasks to the public, contributing to public health and safety.”
Looking towards the future, AKAW Surf Co. has ambitious goals for growth and evolution. RV revealed, "We envision expanding our reach by opening more retail stores and partnering with other retailers to distribute our products in new locations. Sustainability is also a key focus for us, as we aim to incorporate eco-friendly materials and processes into our production. Furthermore, we will continue to innovate and develop new products that enhance the beach experience. Collaborations, marketing campaigns, and community involvement will also be instrumental in strengthening our brand image and expanding our impact."
“We started small, selling t-shirts through social platforms and participating in mini events and gigs. But opening our store at Ayala Malls Central Bloc, I.T Park Cebu was a significant moment for us. It provided us with a prime location and easy accessibility…”
As AKAW Surf Co. continues to ride the waves of success, RV Camaso's dedication to creating high-quality products, promoting sustainable practices, and fostering a vibrant surf community remains unwavering. RV stated, "Our brand's journey is not just about business growth; it's about nurturing a love for the ocean, preserving our natural environment, and inspiring others to embrace an active and adventurous lifestyle."
With a commitment to sustainability, AKAW Surf Co. aims to lead by example in the industry. RV explained, "We are continuously exploring ways to reduce our environmental impact. This includes using eco-friendly materials in our products, implementing sustainable production processes, and minimizing packaging waste. We believe that by making conscious choices, we can contribute to the preservation of our oceans and beaches for future generations."
Furthermore, RV emphasized the importance of community engagement and giving back. "We want to be more than just a surf brand. We want to be a positive force in our local community," RV said. AKAW Surf Co. actively supports local surfers through sponsorships during events, empowering them to pursue their passion and showcase their skills. The brand also participates in coastal clean-up drives, organizing and supporting initiatives that aim to keep the beaches clean and protected.
RV Camaso envisions AKAW Surf Co. as not just a local brand but a global ambassador for the surf culture and beach lifestyle. "We aspire to expand our reach beyond our local area and share the essence of AKAW with ocean lovers and adventurers around the world," RV shared. The brand's future goals include exploring international markets, forging partnerships with like-minded organizations, and continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation and design.
In conclusion, AKAW Surf Co. has carved its own path in the surf industry by offering high-quality and durable “built to ride” products, promoting sustainability, and embracing the vibrant surf, street, and music culture. With RV Camaso's unwavering dedication and a strong commitment to the community and the environment, AKAW Surf Co. is poised to make a lasting impact and inspire others to ride the waves of success while preserving the beauty of our beaches and oceans. Always in search of the waves!
-JP