The Philippine Navy on Thursday said it will conduct an investigation following the death of its two personnel while on wellness break.
“A formal investigation is underway to determine the actual cause and details of the accident as well as to enable us to further improve protocols, especially on safety,” said Philippine Navy Spokesperson Capt. John Percie Alcos Alcos.
The said personnel died while conducting recreational diving activity off the waters of Barangay Mindupok, Maitum, in Sarangani Province on 4 August.
“We are confirming the death of our two men who were conducting recreational diving during their off-duty hours. One was on a mental wellness break, or otherwise known as rest and recreation, while the other one is on authorized absence,” Alcos said.
The recreational activity was authorized as these personnel were on official leave and wellness break, according to Alcos.
“We are providing full assistance to the bereaved families as part of our commitment to their welfare. Above all, we recognize and honor the service and dedication of our fallen sailors to the country and the Filipino people,” he added.
Reports said that the two were both off-duty when they agreed to conduct a recreational dive in the area. However, about an hour later, they were found unresponsive and floating in the same waters.
They were immediately brought to the nearby Sarangani Provincial Hospital for medical attention, but were declared dead on arrival.
“To date, we cannot release the names of our deceased personnel. We have notified their respective families already, but because of the investigation, we cannot release their names yet,” Alcos said.
He said the two personnel were experienced Navy divers, which prompted the launch of a formal investigation to determine the cause of the incident and identify possible improvements to safety protocols for personnel involved in recreational activities.
