THE Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) warned all beachgoers to exercise caution when venturing into the sea, especially during the monsoon season.
The warning comes in the wake of a drowning incident at a beach resort in Bago Aplaya, which resulted in the tragic loss of a 13-year-old boy's life on Sunday, September 3.
As of the latest update, authorities are still searching for the other victim, a 19-year-old boy who was with the 13-year-old during the incident.
Search and retrieval operations are ongoing in front of the resort.
CDRRMO Chief Alfredo Baluran, in an ambush interview at the City Hall Drive, emphasized the need for extra care due to the ongoing monsoon season and the current weather disturbances in the city.
Baluran stated that the agency continually reminds all barangay officials and the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committee (BDRRMC) of the 26 coastal barangays to remain vigilant within their respective areas of responsibility.
He said that the personnel in charge should closely monitor the advisories provided by the CDRRMO and encouraged residents to be alert, especially during unfavorable weather conditions.
CDRRMO urged residents living along the coastline and beachgoers to exercise vigilance and closely monitor beach conditions. Baluran cautioned beachgoers not to swim in the sea when they observe significant waves, as there is a risk of being carried away by the strong currents.
“Katung mga beachgoers, katung mga mangaligog dagat pag makita natu na dagko na ang mga balod dili nata mupugos ug kaligo kay delikado kay basin maadala sila sa mga dagko na balod (For beachgoers, when you see that the waves are huge, do not force yourself to swim because it's dangerous; you might get carried away by the massive waves)," Baloran said.
Baloran also noted that beach resorts have been advised not to allow beachgoers to swim in the ocean when there are large waves, and lifeguards must be present at all times. Having lifeguards on duty is required for beach resorts when obtaining business permits.
A Facebook post by the Davao City Responder appealed to residents living along the city's coastal areas to promptly report any sightings of a boy wearing black shorts as they continue their search for the missing individual. RGP