SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The local government unit (LGU) of San Juan in La Union lifted the shutdown on the town's beaches on Friday as weather conditions in the area have improved.

Earlier, a series of drowning incidents were reported in San Juan town, prompting the LGU to order the temporary closure of beaches and limit surfing activities.

This is also per the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration's (PAGASA) gale warning that was released on December 27, which noted “strong to gale-force winds, which are prevailing or expected to affect the seaboard of Northern Luzon.”

San Juan Mayor Arturo Valdriz issued Executive Order (EO) number 24 series of 2023 on December 29 which lifted earlier orders that temporarily closed the beaches to residents and tourists and suspended water activities.

“After careful assessment and monitoring, it has been determined that the gale warning has been lifted, and the levels of waves have significantly lowered, posing no imminent threat to public safety,” Valdriz said.

He urged the members of the Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams of coastal barangays to remain on alert to ensure the safety of visitors.

“Tourism establishments shall provide precautionary reminders to their guests, especially with regard to beach safety,” he added.

The municipality of San Juan is among the country’s popular tourist destinations because of its beaches, restaurants, and bars.

It is dubbed as the “Surfing Capital of the North.” (JCR/AMB/PIA Region 1)