BY DOMINIQUE GABRIEL G. BAÑAGA
BACOLOD City – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is on alert as thousands of Catholics are expected to flock to beaches on Saturday, June 24, to celebrate the feast day of St. John the Baptist, locally known as “San Juan.”
As of this month, the PCG already recorded 23 drowning incidents in the region, according to Coast Guard District Western Visayas (CGDWV) spokesperson Commander Jansen Benjamin.
The CGDWV will intensify its education campaign against drowning, especially in beach resorts and establishments with swimming pools, by briefing visitors.
Benjamin also pointed out that all beach resorts and swimming pools should have lifeguards in compliance with PCG Memorandum Circular 03-14, which also prescribes the qualifications of lifeguards.
He also reminded everyone, especially parents, not to leave their children unattended.
Those under the influence of liquor should refrain from swimming at sea or in swimming pools./PN
