Masbate: Thirteen water search and rescue (WASAR) teams from across the country converged in Cataingan, Masbate, as the National WASAR Olympics 2026 came to its final day as part of the Bagat-Dagat Festival 2026.
According to Philippines News Agency, Commodore Ivan Roldan, commander of the Philippine Coast Guard - Bicol, stated that the event aims to foster camaraderie among emergency responders while reinforcing disaster preparedness and response capabilities, particularly in communities vulnerable to water-related emergencies. The opening ceremony was held at Matayum Lagoon in Barangay Matayum, attended by provincial and local officials, disaster management authorities, and representatives from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary.
"The three-day competition gathers responders from uniformed services, local government units, and emergency response organizations to showcase their capabilities in water search and rescue operations while promoting disaster preparedness and inter-agency coordination," Roldan said.
Participating teams include the Stalwart Team (65th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army), San Jacinto EMS, Coast Guard RTC Masbate, Iriga City WASAR Team, Bureau of Fire Protection Region V, 2nd Infantry Battalion (Philippine Army), Regional Maritime Unit 5, Coast Guard District Bicol, PRO5 Kasurog Cops Rescuer, Masbate Provincial Police Office WASAR Team, MDRRMO Monreal, LGU Cataingan, and Tactical Operations Group 5.
Three events were conducted on the opening day: the 50-meter swimming relay, contact rescue relay, and knot-tying relay. "The activities tested participants' speed, technical skills, teamwork, and operational readiness in simulated water rescue scenarios," Roldan said.
In the culminating championship round, teams will compete for top honors and a total cash prize pool of PHP800,000. Roldan added that the National WASAR Olympics serves as a platform for enhancing rescue excellence, strengthening interoperability among response agencies, and raising public awareness on water safety.
