PCG-6 to regulate ‘water sports’ in Boracay
Water sports with the use of banana boat, jet ski and flying fish are fun but can cause deaths. This is why the Philippine Coast Guard 6 (PCG-6) will be regulating water sports in the renowned island of Boracay to prevent further incidents.
Last year, the PCG-6 has recorded almost 10 deaths because of water sports activity, particularly jet ski, in the island resort.
Jet ski is a trademark for jet-propelled personal watercraft.
PCG-6 Commodore William Melad said they don’t want more accidents to happen, thus, they need to regulate water sports.
Melad emphasized that under the provision of RA 993 (The Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009) they are authorized to regulate water sports.
The commander said they are proposing to require jet ski operators and owners to own and operate a two-way radio communication facility for the safety of the riding guests in case of emergency and distress.
He added that jet ski operators are required to own and operate rescue boats and other equipment to be used in cases of emergency.
“Jet ski equipment shall always be in tip-top condition for the enhanced safety of the riding guests,” Melad stressed adding that seaworthiness of these equipment should be randomly checked and appraised by the PCG.
He also said that equipment found to be not properly maintained and may cause danger to riding guests, should be barred to operate.
Also, jet ski operations should be licensed with up-to-date registration. Melad said that those found not in compliance should not be allowed from operating their pertinent equipment.
Melad added that jet ski operations should only be at the designated area solely for jet ski users and all users should use one direction (clockwise) in the designated area to avoid collision
“Operators should also make sure that all rental guests could fully understand the agreement and procedures of the sports,” he quipped.
The following are the rules for jet ski operators:
- - Never operate the jet ski after consuming alcohol or any intoxicating drinks.
- - Pregnant women are not allowed to take rides or make rentals.
- - Only those 18 years and above are allowed to take rides and make rentals-those below 18 years must be accompanied by their parents and must be escorted by the staff.
- - Safety rules and regulations must be followed before and during the rides and rentals; those who refuse to follow the company has the right to deny rentals.
- - Carrying of firearms and other deadly weapons is strictly prohibited.
- - Wearing personal floatation devise is a must, those who refuse to wear them shall not be allowed to take the rides and make rentals.
- - Verbal instructions must be understood before the rides and rentals – these are meant to make jet ski experience both safe and fun.
Melad stressed penalties await the erring operators and owners.
He said that the first offense for every jet ski will be P3,000, second offense P5,000 and third offense is P10, 000.
