In a proactive move to prevent drowning incidents and promote water safety among children, the Municipality of San Nicolas, under the leadership of Mayor Alicia L. Primicias-Enriquez, will roll out a free Water Survival and Swimming Lesson program for grade school students starting September 28, 2024. This groundbreaking initiative is part of the town’s vision to become a “drowning-free municipality.”
The program, created in collaboration with Survivalist Philippines, offers a comprehensive training in water survival skills, aiming to equip young students with essential safety knowledge. Regardless of their swimming experience, participants will be taught practical techniques to stay safe in water, making this initiative a vital response to the country’s high drowning statistics.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), drowning is a significant public health issue in the Philippines, claiming over 3,000 lives each year—an average of 10 fatalities per day. The Philippine Statistics Authority reported 3,604 drowning-related deaths in 2021, while data from UNICEF-PNIS revealed that 35% of these victims were children. These alarming figures highlight the urgent need for effective water safety education, especially among young Filipinos.
Mayor Enriquez emphasized the importance of the program, noting that it will be held every weekend at the Agpay Eco Tourism Park. She highlighted the ongoing commitment of the local government to safeguarding its youth. “This program represents a significant step towards promoting water safety and making San Nicolas a drowning-free municipality. By empowering our schoolchildren with essential skills and knowledge on water survival and basics of swimming, we aim to create a safer environment and make our water bodies a safe space for our children,” she said.
The sessions will be conducted by Noel Cabobos, President of Survivalist Philippines and a member of the San Nicolas Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council. He will be supported by a team of accredited rescue-trainers and lifeguards, ensuring that participants receive professional and safe training.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay updated on further announcements regarding this life-saving initiative, which not only aims to reduce drowning incidents but also to foster a culture of water safety and awareness in the community.
For more information, stay tuned to the official channels of the Municipality of San Nicolas.
