Antique: The provincial government of Antique has relaunched its 'Oplan Beach Watch' initiative to prevent drowning incidents during the Holy Week. Spearheaded by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), in collaboration with its municipal counterparts, the initiative will see personnel deployed to monitor and assist in the event of untoward incidents.

According to Philippines News Agency, personnel trained in water rescue have been deployed to monitor resorts with swimming pools. PDRRMO chief Broderick Train mentioned in an interview that personnel were already deployed early in the morning to monitor beaches, especially with the expected influx of families and tourists on Maundy Thursday.

Train noted that, in addition to visiting religious destinations during this Lenten period, tourists are anticipated to enjoy the beautiful beaches of the province. A new feature of the initiative includes a coastal cleanup. 'When we relaunched the Oplan Beach Watch for this Holy Week, we also had a coastal cleanup and raised awareness on proper waste disposal among beach-goers,' Train added.

The Oplan Beach Watch will continue until April 20, having kicked off on April 14. Meanwhile, provincial and municipal DRRMOs are partnering with the Department of Public Works and Highways for the Oplan Lakbay Alalay to ensure road safety. Train stated that personnel are prepared to assist commuters in need of health emergency response and cautioned the public to avoid extreme heat, wear protective equipment like hats and sunglasses, and stay hydrated.