THE province of Pangasinan has recorded the highest number of drowning incidents in Region 1 from 2022 to 2025, according to data released by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Of the 280 drowning incidents reported in the region, Pangasinan accounted for 52 percent, followed by La Union with 23 percent, Ilocos Norte with 14 percent, and Ilocos Sur with 11 percent.

Most of the victims were adults aged 25 to 59, with 114 incidents. There were also 73 cases involving children aged 0 to 14, and 59 cases among youth aged 15 to 24.

Region 1 Health Director Paula Paz Sydiongco emphasized the urgent need for coordinated efforts to protect the public, citing the alarming statistics.

The report also showed that 81.1 percent of the drowning incidents were accidental, while 16.1 percent were alcohol-related.

To address the situation, the Regional Strategic Drowning Prevention Plan (2025–2030) was launched during a workshop held from October 21 to 24 in San Juan, La Union.

Sydiongco said the plan would serve as “our roadmap toward a future where no life is lost to drowning.”

The strategy will guide local government units in crafting localized action plans and policies focusing on prevention, emergency response, surveillance, and advocacy—all anchored on evidence-based approaches. (Ahikam Pasion)