HFHS Student Leaders Join World Drowning Prevention Day 2026 Water Safety Symposium

A total of 124 student leaders representing various school organizations and clubs, together with five faculty members of Holy Family High School (HFHS) in Bacolod City, participated in a Water Safety Symposium in observance of World Drowning Prevention Day 2026, demonstrating their commitment to promoting water safety and supporting the advocacy of the World Health Organization (WHO).

The symposium, held at the school’s covered gymnasium on July 18, carried the theme “Unite to Turn the Tide: Anyone Can Drown, But No One Should.” The event aimed to raise awareness about drowning prevention and equip participants with essential knowledge and life-saving skills that can help prevent water-related accidents and fatalities.

The participating students were composed of student leaders from different organizations and clubs within the school, enabling them to serve as advocates and ambassadors of water safety awareness among their fellow students and communities.

The activity was led by Sir Mark Pablo Orcena, EMT, SO1, BM, a certified instructor of Philippine Life Saving, who highlighted the importance of water safety education and community involvement in reducing drowning incidents and saving lives.

During the symposium, participants were introduced to the Keep Watch Program of Philippine Life Saving, which promotes active supervision and vigilance around aquatic environments. Discussions also focused on the International Life Saving (ILS) Aqua Code, a globally recognized guide that encourages safe and responsible behavior in and around water.

In addition, the student leaders and faculty members received instruction on non-contact water rescue techniques, emphasizing safe methods of assisting a person in distress without endangering the rescuer. The symposium also included a session on Drowning Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), providing participants with essential knowledge on emergency response procedures that can increase survival chances during drowning incidents.

The event forms part of the worldwide observance of World Drowning Prevention Day, an initiative led by WHO to raise awareness of drowning as a major public health issue and to promote evidence-based strategies that can prevent water-related deaths.

By participating in this meaningful activity, Holy Family High School reaffirmed its commitment to developing responsible student leaders who are knowledgeable about safety, preparedness, and community service. Through the collective efforts of its student organizations, faculty members, and partner agencies, the school joins the global call to create safer communities and prevent avoidable drowning incidents.

As emphasized throughout the symposium, “Anyone can drown, but no one should,” a message that serves as a reminder that drowning prevention is a shared responsibility and that education remains one of the most effective tools in saving lives.*