THE feast of Saint John the Baptist was still celebrated in the shores of Bacolod City amidst the coronavirus pandemic.
It was an opportunity for some to relish the real "Vitamin Sea" as beachgoers plunged into the waters along with family and friends.
Jonas Rey Pinongan, CBA Rescue lifeguard assigned at Villarosa Beach resort (extension), said that people came to the beach as early as 6 a.m. to celebrate San Juan.
This tradition is yearly observed by locals who would love to take a plunge into the sea to unwind, enjoy and be energized by the seawaters.
But with the coronavirus pandemic, beachgoers were advised to still observe the health protocol of wearing face masks when they are offshore and also keep physical or social distancing, to which they all happily abide.
It is also good to report that there is a zero drowning incident during the San Juan feast, unlike past years where isolated cases were recorded due to overcrowding.
It's good for now that the number of beachgoers is manageable and lifeguards can truly ensure their safety when they swim with their families and friends.
He said there was also the limitation imposed on the swimmers as there is a certain distance where adult swimmers can swim. There is also a limit for children while those intoxicated are not allowed to swim.
He said that even if the beachgoers finish their swimming spree, they need to go back wearing their face masks and observe social distancing.
They are advised to wear it more so when they leave the beach premises.
The people came to the beach to simply have a break from the isolation in the previous months as a measure against the spread of Covid-19.
The feast of San Juan was celebrated peacefully and with a little fun and respite from the solitude, he said.