The Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) has issued a stern public warning against consuming alcohol before swimming, following a concerning spike in drowning deaths across the Davao Region. As of January 5, 2025, the agency has recorded six separate drowning incidents since the start of the year, with half of the fatalities directly linked to alcohol intoxication.
A Tragic Start to the Year
According to Lieutenant Junior Grade Melanie S. Benitez, the CGDSEM spokesperson, the six cases resulted in four confirmed deaths and two successful rescues by Coast Guard personnel. The fatal incidents occurred in the municipalities of Don Marcelino, Mati City, Banganga, and Tarragona. The two individuals who were saved from drowning were found in Davao de Oro and Tarragona.
Benitez specifically identified the drownings in Mati City, Banganga, and Tarragona as involving victims who were under the influence of alcohol. In a phone interview on Monday, January 5, she emphasized the grave danger of mixing swimming with drinking. "Always remind the public not to mix swimming with drinking alcohol," Benitez stated. "In many of our recent drowning cases, the victims were already too intoxicated to swim."
Search Operations and Safety Reminders
Beyond the confirmed cases, the Coast Guard is also dealing with a missing person report in Banganga, where search operations are ongoing after the individual was swept away by strong waves. This incident underscores the additional natural hazards present at sea.
In response to the incidents, Benitez reiterated crucial safety guidelines for all beachgoers and island-hoppers:
- Always wear a properly fitted life jacket, especially when on a boat.
- Choose motorized bancas (boats) that have secure handholds to prevent falls in rough waters.
- Stay vigilant about weather and sea conditions, particularly strong waves.
- Avoid entering the water if you have consumed alcohol.
Holiday Season Safety Campaign in Full Swing
These warnings are part of the broader Oplan Byaheng Ayos: Pasko 2025 campaign, which aims to ensure safe and secure maritime travel during the holiday season. As of January 4, 2025, the Coast Guard's efforts under this operation have been extensive:
- Monitored 360,649 passengers
- Inspected 730 vessels
- Checked 143,098 rolling cargoes
- Examined 8,112 motorized bancas
The campaign mobilizes all Coast Guard units across districts, stations, and sub-stations. It involves intensified safety inspections, deployment of personnel at major seaports, and close coordination with agencies like the Department of Transportation, the Philippine Ports Authority, and the Maritime Industry Authority.
The CGDSEM continues to amplify its message through information drives and social media posts, urging everyone to exercise extreme caution and personal responsibility to prevent further tragedies. The recent cluster of drownings serves as a somber reminder that a fun day at the beach can turn deadly without proper precautions and a clear mind.
