During training in Palawan, a personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard passed away
PALAWAN – A personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) tragically passed away during a water search and rescue (WASAR) training.
The incident occurred on November 15, when a 27-year-old Apprentice Seaman from the Palawan district lost consciousness while attempting a 100-meter swim. The PCG training staff promptly responded, initiating cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and transporting the individual to the nearest hospital. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, the attending physician declared the personnel dead at around 9 p.m.
PCG Commandant Admiral Gil Gavan expressed the organization’s commitment to enhancing safety protocols, stating that the incident would lead to a thorough review and improvement of existing training safety measures. Emphasizing the importance of equipping personnel with the necessary skills for sea-related emergencies, Gavan assured that the goal is to ensure every first responder can effectively contribute to preserving lives at sea.
“As guardians of the sea, our personnel are expected to have relevant knowledge and skills in swimming and saving lives at sea,” said PCG Commandant Admiral Gil Gavan. “With this incident, rest assured that our existing training safety protocols will be reviewed and improved to ensure that every personnel preparing to become first responders can effectively serve the Filipino nation by upholding [the] safety of lives at sea,” he added.
In response to the tragic event, Gavan announced as Inquirer.net the immediate suspension of all ongoing WASAR training on Thursday. He clarified that the suspension would persist until a comprehensive review of safety procedures is conducted by the Coast Guard Special Operations Force and relevant units. “All WASAR courses are hereby suspended immediately pending the conduct of review of safety procedures by the Coast Guard Special Operations Force and cognizant units,” Gavan said.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is the country’s third armed uniformed service under the Department of Transportation, responsible for enforcing laws in Philippine waters, conducting maritime security operations, safeguarding life and property at sea, and protecting the marine environment and resources.