THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has hosted the first-ever Recreational Safety Forum in Boracay on 10 May 2024.
The Maritime Safety Services Command (MSSC) said the initiative aimed to provide a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration between maritime industry professionals, relevant agencies, and stakeholders. This is to address gaps and challenges in recreational safety enforcement in the country’s top tourist destination.
Coast Guard District Western Visayas Commander, CG Captain Weniel Azcuna, warmly welcomed the participants, while MSSC Commander, CG Vice Admiral Joseph Coyme emphasized the importance of the stakeholder engagements in enforcing maritime safety regulations.
The following topics were discussed during the event:
- Guidelines for the Safe Operation of Recreational Watercrafts (RSEU)
- Interim Guidelines in the Conduct of WASAR and Lifeguard Training (MSSC-Legal Unit)
- Rules on the Registration, Licensing, and Operation of Recreational Boats (MARINA Region VI)
- Accreditation of Tourism Enterprise and other topics related on Recreational Safety and Environmental Concerns (DOT Region VI)
- Health in Tourism Programs and other topics related on Recreational Safety and Environmental Concerns (DOH Region VI)
CG Captain Michael Andag concluded the forum with a challenge to translate the dialogues into tangible actions towards bridging the gaps and improving recreational safety in Boracay.
