In Dagupan City, some boat operators and passengers continue to cross the river without wearing life vests, raising concerns over their safety especially during the typhoon season.

Miguelito Naeg, a boatman, admitted that despite being careful during his trips, safety on the river is never guaranteed.

“Basta nakahawak lang sa gilid,” he said, referring to how passengers steady themselves to avoid falling off.

Rachelle Quinto, a regular passenger, said many residents have grown used to traveling this way.

“Sanay na po kami dito,” she said.

The GMA Regional TV news team also spotted a family with three young children aboard a small boat, appearing unbothered by the possible danger of capsizing. The father, Mark, said they have grown accustomed to such rides.

Barangay officials of Pantal admitted that there used to be life vests provided to passengers, but this practice has stopped for unclear reasons.

“Ibalik natin. Lalo na ngayon, may bagyo. Isa ‘yun na makakatulong,” Barangay Administrator Marlon Calimlim said.

At the Magsaysay Fish Market, larger motorboats carrying up to 20 passengers were also seen operating without visible life vests.

Enrique Escosio, a boatman, said they had safety gear.

“Nagdadala kami, Sir, ng life vest. Meron diyan,” he said.

However, when asked to show the vests, he admitted he had forgotten them. One passenger, Ginalyn Narvasa, confirmed the absence of any.

“Wala po, sir. Wala po talaga,” she said.

Officials of the Philippine Coast Guard Dagupan Sub-Station were unavailable for comment, as of this writing.

GMA Regional TV One North Central Luzon continues to seek the response of authorities on the matter.