Polish tourist drowns while snorkeling in Port Barton, Palawan

A 32-year-old Polish man drowned while snorkeling in Port Barton, San Vicente, Palawan early in the week.

According to Bernadette Reyes’ Wednesday report on “24 Oras,” Radek Semperski was last seen alive snorkeling in the vicinity of Fantastic Reef on Monday, December 8.

Semperski was with a group of tourists and local guides but they only realized he was missing after more than half an hour.

The group was headed to Smart Island, which was about 300 to 500 meters away from where their boat was anchored when the incident took place between12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

The following day, the victim’s body was found floating inside the reef. He was still wearing his snorkeling gear.

Moises David Cabungan, chairman of the Port Barton Marine Park Council, said they found both the victim’s legs have turned to a violet color, an indication that he suffered cramps.

Cabungan added that the area where Semperski was found was considered shallow water, which is about 14 meters deep.

Authorities are investigating whether the boatman and his crew were negligent and may face charges.

Marvin Ballesteros, Barangay Port Barton chairman, said their tour guides are well-trained, with safety measures in place during their tours.

He added that tourists are monitored even if they are physically fit to swim. —Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News