The 32 graduates of DOH-4A's Lifeguard Qualification Training Course in partnership with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District- NCR and Department of Tourism (DOT) together with regional directors Eduardo Janairo (with vest) and Marites Castro (DOT, center), Paolo Abejuela, Sheila Blancaver in San Juan, Batangas on Mar. 13, 2019. (Photo courtesy of DOH-4A)
MANILA -- The Department of Health (DOH) 4-A (Calabarzon) has intensified its campaign on the safety and security of tourists engaging in water activities in the region through the Lifeguard Qualification Training Program.
The training, which was held in Laiya, San Juan, Batangas from March 4-13, is part of the agency's "Health in Tourism Program" to ensure the health and safety of all people in tourism-related establishments in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon).
In a statement on Thursday, DOH 4-A Director Eduardo Janairo said 32 persons successfully hurdled the training.
“Preventing water incidents and ensuring the safety of all individuals going to the beaches this summer is very important and every establishment with pools and beaches must have at least one lifeguard to immediately address any emergency situation and provide first aid treatment, including basic life support service,” he said.
Janairo assured the trainees that the regional health office and the Philippine Coast Guard will coordinate with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for the inclusion of the Lifeguard Qualification Training Course in their curriculum to provide graduates with appropriate certification.
To date, the region has 70 trained lifeguards.
“We will continue to provide more lifeguard training until all accredited establishments in the region can have their own duly licensed lifeguard to man their pools, beaches and resorts. We will not only promote health but safety as well," he added.
The agency provided the graduates lifeguard rescue equipment, with each getting a rescue can, whistle, and two sets of uniform.
Janairo requested the graduates to sustain the healthy lifestyle they learned during their training to ensure a healthy and strong physique.
“Refrain from excessive consumption of cigarettes and alcoholic drinks, which can affect your perception and awareness while on duty. Presence of mind is very important because you are at the forefront of preventing accidents and saving lives," he added.
Through the training program, Janairo said they will lobby to local chief executives for the implementation of Republic Act 9993 or The Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009, which mandates operators and owners of resorts to hire lifeguards.
Violators will face fines ranging from PHP1,000 to PHP5,000, or a 45-day jail term, or both. (Ma. Teresa Montemayor/ Saul Pa-a/PNA)
