Capitol asks LGU to field lifeguards at Kawasan

CEBU, Philippines - Following the recent drowning incident at the Kawasan Falls in Badian last Tuesday, the Provincial Tourism Council is taking steps to boost safety and security in the area.

Vice Governor Agnes Magpale, who sits as co-chairperson of the tourism body, has asked the concerned local government to field lifeguards who can respond to emergency situations.

She added that there is also a need to craft a stricter policy on tour guiding as well as on the need to wear complete protective gears.

She said the matter would be tackled during a tour guiding seminar which will be conducted by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office anytime soon.

The province has since pushed for stricter safety measures and capacity building of tour guides following the death of a tour guide who also drowned last year after being hit by a strong current while supervising guests.

Magpale said she was saddened by the latest incident which happened before they can even start implementing the safety and security measures.

Last Tuesday, a 21-year-old woman died while swimming at the Kawasan Falls, which is known for its sought-after three-tier falls and hush of rushing ice cool natural spring water.

According to the accounts of the police, the victim identified as Geraldine Indig, a resident of Barangay Patong in the town, was taking a swim in the water and was also striking poses at the same time. However, Indig, who did not know how to swim, was suddenly pushed by the strong current to the deeper part of the falls.

She was rescued and brought to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

On the same day, just before the incident happened, Magpale met with officials and representatives from Badian and Alegria to discuss the plan to implement stricter policy on outdoor activities like canyoneering, being an extreme activity.

Alegria is also known for its canyoneering adventure, whose trek starts in Kanlaob River and ends in the Kawasan Falls.  (FREEMAN)