Coast Guard to inspect Negros Occidental resorts on lifeguard requirement and emergency response

In preparation for the upcoming summer vacation period, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) will conduct a series of inspections of all resorts in the province.

Commander Joe Luviz Mercurio, station commander of the PCG in northern Negros Occidental said they are expecting an influx of vacationers and resort goers as the country continues to downgrade its travel restrictions brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Among those they will inspect is whether the resorts have enough lifeguards on duty, as well as to check their capabilities during emergency situations. Resorts are required to have enough lifeguards.

The PCG in northern Negros Occidental is also expected to conduct a series of trainings and seminars related to water search and rescue for new lifeguards, as well as for members of the local Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary in the province.

Meanwhile, Mercurio advised resort goers to be extra careful and prioritize their personal safety.

He admitted that some resorts in the province do not have enough lifeguard personnel, pointing out for example if the beach resort area is vast, one or two lifeguards cannot cover the entire stretch of the resort at all times.* (DGB)