Water-based tourism on Pamilacan Island in Bohol has been temporarily suspended following the tragic deaths of two elderly Korean tourists who drowned while snorkeling.
Baclayon Mayor Alvin Uy issued an executive order halting all water-related activities—such as snorkeling, diving, and boating—on the island as authorities work to determine the cause of the incident and prevent future tragedies.
According to a report at ABS CBN, the two tourists allegedly ignored warnings against snorkeling and did not pay the required local entry fees. They were reportedly transported to Pamilacan by boatmen from nearby Panglao Island.
“We need to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure similar accidents don’t happen again,” said Mayor Uy, who has tasked local police with enforcing the suspension order.
A coordination meeting is scheduled for Friday to assess the situation and discuss ways to enhance safety and management of tourism operations on the island.
Pamilacan, a small island barangay off the coast of Panglao, is a popular destination for marine activities and whale and dolphin watching, drawing both local and international tourists.
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