Antique: The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) in Antique is poised to become the official assessment center for the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority's (TESDA) Lifeguard Services National Certificate (NC) II program in the province.

According to Philippines News Agency, TESDA-Antique Director Rick Abraham confirmed that the PDRRMO possesses the necessary personnel and capability to evaluate trainees aspiring for national certification as lifeguards.

The need for the Lifeguard Services NC II program in Antique is underscored by the province's extensive coastline and numerous mountain resorts, which attract both local and international tourists. The presence of 15 coastal municipalities and several inland resorts in Antique necessitates the availability of well-trained lifeguards skilled in water rescue, resuscitation, and emergency care.

Abraham highlighted that the PDRRMO already has staff proficient in water rescue and emergency response. To become a TESDA-accredited assessment center, the PDRRMO needs to complete the trainers' methodology course and submit necessary documents, including a letter of intent. Once accredited, the PDRRMO will evaluate the competency of Lifeguard Services NC II graduates before they receive their national certificates, which are essential for employment.

The expansion of lifeguard training and certification is expected to contribute to the reduction of drowning incidents in the province. According to provincial records, there have been 134 drowning incidents from 2019 to 2025, resulting in 126 fatalities. Many victims did not receive timely water rescue, resuscitation, or emergency care, emphasizing the critical need for certified lifeguards in the region.