LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) Region I unveiled the “Drowning Prevention Playbook” with the theme “Do your part, Be Water Smart,” as part of its efforts to intensify drowning prevention advocacy in Ilocos Norte.

The playbook serves as a manual for local government units, outlining appropriate actions and collaborations to target zero drowning cases in the province.

DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Singh-Vergeire recently led the ceremonial launching, along with DOH-1 Regional Director Dr. Paula Paz M. Sydiongco, John Juliard Go of the World Health Organization, Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMHMC) Chief Dr. Maria Lourdes Otayza, and Sangguniang Board Member Dr. Medeldorf Gaoat.

According to the WHO representative, drowning is one of the top five causes of deaths among children in the Philippines, especially children who live near open bodies of water such as rivers, oceans, and lakes. 

“One major public health concern on a national, international, and local level is drowning. Based on data, the death rate in Ilocos Norte is 4.1 percent, higher than the national death rate of 3.1 percent”,  said Go.

DOH Usec. Vergeire emphasized that drowning continues to be a problem but there are many actions to address this burden. 

The DOH is working closely with government agencies carrying out measures promoting actions toward drowning-free communities.

“The drowning prevention playbook plays a very important role. It is a collaborative and intersectoral plan for drowning “ said Vergeire. 

To further promote zero drowning incidents, promotional videos and storybook contests were also conducted, and the display of kiosks from different LGUs showcasing life support and rescue equipment to raise awareness of drowning prevention and safe vacation.

“We can create a positive impact towards future decision making and more importantly a bigger impact on the lives of the Filipino people. “ Vergeire highlighted. (JCR/MJTAB/CMR PIA Ilocos Norte)