ILOILO CITY – The provincial government of Guimaras on Monday remembered the sea tragedy that left 31 passengers dead after three motor bancas capsized off the Iloilo Strait exactly one year ago.
A virtual commemoration of the maritime accident started with mass followed by a short program that was streamed live via the Facebook page of the provincial government.
In her message, lone district Rep. Lucille Nava also talked about the resilience of Guimarasnons as they recovered from what was considered as the worst oil spill tragedy that hit the province in August 2006.
Thirteen years after the oil spill, Guimaras again experienced its second worst tragedy on August 3, 2019 that resulted in the death of 31 individuals.
“This day is marked as a day of remembrance. To our departed brothers and sisters, we will continue to value and will always remember them,” she said.
Nava also proposed that a legislation be considered to declare August as Maritime Safety Awareness Month to serve a constant reminder on the value and importance of maritime security.
Guimaras governor Dr. Samuel Gumarin recalled the impact of what he said as “catastrophic transportation disruption” on the socio-economic lives of Guimarasnons.
He cited the drop in tourist arrivals while trade and mobility stopped.
Gumarin said answering questions on how to move on from the tragedy could be difficult if they have not yet recovered from the previous disaster.
“This is the essence why we are commemorating the first year of the tragedy,” he said, adding this day will always be remembered and will give them strength to become more resilient.
Nonetheless, it has borne talks on modernizing the sea transport to ensure the safety of the public conveyance in Guimaras, he said in his message. (PNA)