SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – As tourist arrivals surge along La Union’s scenic beaches, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District Northwestern Luzon has intensified its coastal safety efforts through continuous training, increased deployment, and heightened public awareness campaigns.
Lieutenant Junior Grade Ivhanne Rillon, commander of the Civil Relations Group of the PCG District Northwestern Luzon, said they have trained personnel in water rescue and basic life support to ensure readiness for drowning incidents.
“We want our responders to be capable not just of reacting, but of preventing the loss of life,” Rillon noted.
These preparations aim to improve the capacity of responders and reinforce a culture of safety in high-traffic areas.
La Union currently has nine strategically located PCG substations equipped with rescue boats, life-saving gear, and trained personnel operating as permanent outposts.
Additional support is available through high-speed response vessels based in Pangasinan.
With Holy Week drawing large crowds to coastal areas, the PCG has been on red alert since last week.
However, this readiness extends beyond the season as the Coast Guard continues to recruit additional personnel, expand resources, and build long-term coastal resilience.
In coordination with local government units, the PCG is also actively educating beachgoers on safe swimming practices, local safety regulations, and emergency protocols.
Meanwhile, a mild drowning incident was recorded on April 16 in San Juan, La Union.
The victim, a tourist from Baguio City, was quickly assisted by nearby responders and PCG personnel after experiencing fatigue while swimming.
The incident underscores the importance of PCG’s increased presence and quick response capacity along the province’s coastline.
Rillon reminded the public that while the Coast Guard is committed to saving lives, personal vigilance remains crucial to preventing accidents.
“We are here not only to respond but to prevent. Tourism in La Union is thriving, and safety must keep pace through community involvement, preparedness, and sustained presence on our shores,” he remarked.
Thus, while the Coast Guard is committed to saving lives, ensuring safety amid La Union’s growing tourism also depends on personal vigilance and community cooperation. (AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
