Boracay dragon boat races suspended after mishap
ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Dragon boat competitions in Boracay were suspended a day after seven team members drowned when their boat capsized on Wednesday.
“Dragon boat races won’t be allowed until teams can present proof that they have the necessary safety equipment and device,” Natividad Bernardino, general manager of the Boracay Interagency Rehabilitation Management Group, said yesterday.
The group is under the Boracay Interagency Task Force (BIATF).
Bernardino said she would convene the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to review safety protocols.
“More than blaming, the review would find out what could be done to strengthen our emergency response efforts,” she said.
Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu said emergency response programs in Boracay would be strengthened to prevent a similar tragedy.
“The BIATF is saddened... and sympathizes with the families of the casualties. The task force will work with local government units and other authorities to extend assistance to all those affected by this unfortunate incident,” Cimatu said.
The victims, who were set to compete in Taiwan in November, were training in Bulabog Beach when their boat was hit by strong waves and winds. Fourteen other team members were rescued. – Evelyn Macairan
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