By Jennifer P. Rendon
A man died, and his companion survived after a drowning incident on Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan.
The fatality was identified as Richard Castillo, while Christian Cernaquez, 30, of Sta. Cruz, Laguna, was rescued and is now in stable condition.
The two were swimming with co-workers around 4:30 p.m. on October 25 near Lifeguard Coast, Station 2 in Barangay Balabag when the incident occurred.
Several lifeguards and a paddle boat instructor quickly responded to rescue the two tourists.
They were rushed to Ciriaco S. Tirol Hospital, where Castillo was pronounced dead. Cernaquez was later transferred to Asia Pacific Medical Center in Kalibo, Aklan, for further treatment.
Following the incident, the Malay Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) released a statement expressing condolences to Castillo’s family.
The statement noted that the incident occurred while Boracay was under Tropical Cyclone Signal Number One. The MDRRMO had raised a red flag on the beach, prohibiting swimming due to dangerous water conditions.
The MDRRMO Boracay Base Response Team responded swiftly after receiving the emergency signal.
“This incident highlights the importance of adhering to beach safety protocols, especially during adverse weather conditions. Although a lifeguard tower is stationed in the area, resources may be limited, making it challenging to monitor the entire shoreline. We encourage all beachgoers to exercise caution, be responsible, and respect safety flags and advisories for everyone’s protection,” the statement added.
The Malay MDRRMO also thanked bystanders who assisted responders and local authorities during the rescue.
“The Municipality of Malay remains committed to ensuring public safety, and we urge everyone to prioritize safety and follow beach guidelines at all times,” the statement concluded.
