April 21, 2024 - A 16-year-old teenager was successfully rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) at Baybay Beach, Mercedes, Camarines Norte on April 20, 2024.
PHOTO COURTESY: PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD
Upon receiving the distress call, personnel from the Coast Guard Station Camarines Norte and Coast Guard Sub Station Mercedes immediately rushed to the location. The victim was spotted struggling to swim approximately 100 meters from the shoreline.
The PCG rescue team swiftly conducted a water rescue operation and successfully saved the teenager from drowning. The victim was then handed over to the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) Mercedes onboard a rescue ambulance. He was subsequently taken to the Camarines Norte Provincial Hospital for proper medical attention.
According to initial investigations, the teenager was practicing a cheer dance routine with his groupmates before deciding to swim alone. Tragically, he was swept away by a rip current and struggled to swim back to the shoreline.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of swimming alone, especially in areas known for strong currents. The PCG continues to advise the public to exercise caution when swimming and to always have a buddy system in place.
The quick response and successful rescue operation by the PCG have been widely praised, highlighting their crucial role in ensuring the safety of the public. The condition of the teenager is currently stable, and he is expected to make a full recovery.