Warning vs water accidents

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has advised people living in coastal barangays (villages) to keep an eye on their children as it expressed alarm over the number of drowning and near-drowning incidents in those communities.

The PCG has recorded 13 drowning incidents since the start of the year.

PCG spokesman Cmdr. Armand Balilo said that most of the victims were children who drowned or almost drowned while swimming unguarded in the sea.

“In these remote coastal towns, the parents as well as the barangay officials play an important role in ensuring the safety of the young members of their community,” he said.

“Very young children should not be allowed to play near the water when they are not accompanied by an adult,” he added.—Tina G. Santos