San Juan, La Union Restricts Water Activities Following Drowning Incidents

San Juan, La Union – Following a series of drowning incidents that led to five deaths after Christmas Day, the town of San Juan in La Union has limited surfing activities to certain areas, with other water activities being temporarily halted.

According to Philippines News Agency, San Juan Mayor Arturo Valdriz issued Executive Order (EO) 23 on Wednesday. This decision was made in response to a gale warning by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, which affected the Northern Luzon seaboard. The EO states, “This extraordinary water condition in the municipal seawaters poses a risk to our beachgoers which could lead to drowning.”

The order was amended on Thursday, allowing surfing only in front of the Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa, while all other beach areas are closed for swimming and additional water activities. San Juan is known for its substantial waves, making it a popular surfing destination.

The La Union PDRRMO has advised tourists to exercise caution when swimming in the waters of San Juan due to the high waves. They emphasized the importance of parental supervision for children at the beach.

The PDRRMO reported on Friday that the bodies of the drowning victims were recovered on Thursday. The incidents occurred on December 26, when two cousins, aged 9 and 12, from Kibungan, Benguet, were playing along the shoreline and were swept away by strong waves. Another incident on the following day involved a 16-year-old male from Tawang, La Trinidad, Benguet, who attempted to rescue three companions but was overpowered by strong currents.

The other victims, also male and aged 19 and 20, were from Santo Tomas Proper, Baguio City. These tragedies have prompted the local government to implement stricter safety measures to prevent further incidents.