Local officials eye ban on swimming in Pampanga River

Following two successive tragedies there, local government officials in Pampanga are considering imposing a ban on swimming in the Pampanga River.

 

The local government is eyeing placing signs warning people against the danger of swimming in the river, radio dzBB reported.

 

Other options include placing fences to discourage people from taking a dip in the river, the report said.

 

At least seven people died while swimming in the river earlier this week.

 

On Wednesday afternoon, two girls - Khaela Gonzalez, 12, and Lolita Mandap Bernardino, 13 - drowned in the river in Apalit following a swim with friends.

 

Gonzalez's body was recovered 8 a.m. Thursday while that of Bernardino was recovered at noon.

 

The victims had gone swimming with friends, and drowned in the part of Pampanga River in Barangay Sulipan in Apalit town, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said.

 

Meanwhile, on Tuesday afternoon, five people were reported dead after a banca they were riding capsized in Pampanga River.

 

Rescue teams separately recovered the bodies of Alvin Guevarra, Rea Guevarra, Jovelyn Guevarra, Nigel Ray Lucero, and Aldrey Guevarra.

 

Initial investigation showed the victims had taken the banca for a ride along the river to go swimming at about 2 to 3 p.m. Tuesday.  — ELR, GMA News