AUTHORITIES warned beachgoers, swimmers, and boat operators across the region to exercise caution following a spate of water-related incidents this month.
The Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) reported four drowning incidents within its area of responsibility (AOR) between Aug. 1 and Aug. 10, 2026.
In an official advisory, CGDSEM emphasized that water safety requires proactive community cooperation, warning against underestimating unpredictable sea conditions and strong currents.
“Your safety is a shared responsibility,” CGDSEM stated. “Stay alert, stay safe, and never underestimate the power of the sea.”
Coast Guard officials urged beachgoers to swim exclusively in designated and supervised areas monitored by trained lifeguards.
To prevent further casualties, CGDSEM outlined five essential safety directives:
- Supervise Children: Never leave children unattended or unsupervised near bodies of water, even for brief periods.
- Wear Life Vests: Mandatory use of life jackets or appropriate floatation gear when boarding motorized bancas, boats, or participating in water sports.
- Avoid Alcohol: Strictly refrain from swimming or operating watercraft while under the influence of alcohol, a major contributing factor in coastal drowning accidents.
- Swim in Designated Zones: Stay within marked, safe swimming boundaries and avoid restricted or unmonitored zones.
- Monitor Weather Bulletins: Check weather forecasts and sea conditions prior to swimming or sailing, avoiding the water entirely during bad weather.
CGDSEM stations and sub-stations in Southeastern Mindanao remain on heightened alert to respond to maritime emergencies and enforce safety standards along coastal areas.
