By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Negros Occidental Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) yesterday threatened to close down beach resorts that do not have lifeguards on duty.

PCG-Bacolod station commander, Lieutenant Senior Grade Jimmy Oliver Vingno, said all PCG personnel and auxiliary units in the province have been ordered to conduct inspections of beach resorts every day throughout the ongoing summer vacation period.

Vingno said PCG personnel must also conduct foot patrols along beaches to ensure the safety of beachgoers, particularly children.

Auxiliary members, meanwhile, were ordered to conduct information dissemination activities for the public on beach and sea safety.

Beach resorts have also been requested to ensure lifeguards have undergone training and are accredited with the PCG.

Meanwhile, PCG said they have yet to record any drowning incidents in the province since going on alert last week for the summer vacation period./DGB, WDJ