TWO individuals were confirmed dead in separate drowning incidents during Holy Week, according to the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) of the Philippine Coast Guard.
In a phone interview with SunStar on Monday, April 21, 2025, CGDSEM spokesperson LTJG Winston Gonzales said the Holy Week observance across the region was generally peaceful, with no major maritime or security-related incidents recorded.
“We are happy to announce that almost all of our stations recorded no major incidents,” Gonzales said. “This shows the effectiveness of our coordination with local government units, beach resort operators, and other stakeholders in ensuring public safety during the long holiday."
However, Gonzales confirmed that two drowning incidents did occur.
One took place on Easter Sunday, April 20, at Tinago Beach in Barangay Pangubatan, Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos), Davao del Norte. The victim, identified only by the alias “Adie,” a resident of Kaputian District, reportedly drowned after swimming in a restricted “No Swim Zone.”
Rescuers administered CPR and rushed the victim to the nearest hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival.
The second incident happened on Good Friday, April 18, at Leling Beach Resort in Hagonoy, Davao del Sur. The victim, “Erni,” a 75-year-old resident of Kidapawan City, North Cotabato, drowned while swimming.
Initial reports suggest that the extreme heat, combined with alcohol consumption and a possible hypertension attack, may have contributed to the incident. Like the first case, the victim was brought to a nearby hospital but was also declared dead on arrival.
Gonzales reiterated the importance of following safety guidelines when visiting coastal areas, especially during peak seasons.
“We continue to urge the public to follow local advisories and be mindful of designated swim zones to prevent further tragedies,” he added.