Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu temporarily suspended all dragon boat race activities in Boracay in the wake of the recent tragedy off the island involving a local dragon boat group that killed seven of its members.
“We are temporarily suspending all dragon boat race activities in Boracay, including practice and training, until we have assessed their practice protocols,” Cimatu said.
The Department of Enviroment and Natural Resources chief, who also chairs the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force, said that such activities are also currently postponed “until emergency protocols are thoroughly scrutinized.”
Cimatu assured the public that the agency will enhance its emergency response programs in Boracay to prevent similar tragic accident in the future.
The local government of Malay, Aklan and partner agencies have extended their support to the families of the victims and offered financial assistance, stress debriefing, cadaver management, and security.
According to Cimatu, all agencies involved in emergency rescue and response are set to meet on Monday to conduct a comprehensive assessment of protocols, logistics, and resources, and come up with recommendations to address gaps subject to the approval of the BIATF. (Alexandria San Juan)