PALAWAN - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has suspended all Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) training exercises in Palawan following the tragic drowning of a trainee. PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gavan announced the suspension on Friday, pending an investigation into the incident.
According to Philippines News Agency, the drowning of apprentice seaman Saripon Diacudin occurred during a 100-meter swimming proficiency exercise as part of the Water Search, Rescue and Survival Techniques Training in Rizal, Palawan. Diacudin was declared dead at about 9 p.m. on Wednesday evening. The cause of death was identified as "hypoxia ischemic encephalopathy due to drowning, followed by cardiac arrest." Admiral Gavan stated that the suspension of all WASAR courses is immediate, to allow a review and improvement of safety procedures by the Coast Guard Special Operations Force and related units. Emphasizing the importance of relevant knowledge and skills in swimming and life-saving at sea for coast guard personnel, Gavan expressed the need for enhanced protocols to ensure trainee safety during such exercises.