CALATAGAN, BATANGAS – A swift emergency intervention by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) saved the life of a swimmer who nearly drowned at the “Little Boracay” resort area in Barangay 4 on Friday.
The victim, whose identity has been withheld, was reportedly under the influence of alcohol, and began to struggle in the water.
Personnel from the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Calatagan were conducting routine bay watch patrols nearby when they received word of the emergency. They rushed to the scene to find the victim had been pulled to the shoreline by a family member.
Finding the individual unresponsive and without a pulse, PCG responders immediately administered Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). The victim managed to regain consciousness before an ambulance arrived to transport the victim to the Calatagan Medicare Center, who was later transferred to Medical Center Western Balayan for extended observation.
The incident has prompted a stern warning from maritime authorities regarding the dangers of “tipsy swimming.”
“Intoxication significantly impairs judgment, coordination, and physical ability,” the PCG stated in a safety advisory. “We strongly caution the public against entering the water while under the influence of alcohol, as it greatly increases the risk of a fatal accident.“
In the wake of the near-tragedy, the PCG is urging tourists to adhere to the following safety protocols:
- Swim only in designated areas monitored by lifeguards.
- Observe posted safety signs and flags.
- Avoid swimming alone, especially after consuming alcohol.
The PCG credited the successful outcome to the “collective vigilance” of the patrolling officers and the immediate notification by the victim’s family.