Lingayen: The Pangasinan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) has implemented a flag warning system on Lingayen beach to enhance safety measures during the Holy Week and the annual Pistay Dayat festival. Beachgoers are urged to pay attention to this system to prevent accidents, particularly drowning incidents.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pia Flores, assistant director of the PDRRMO’s Emergency Operations Center, explained in a media interview that color-coded flags-red, yellow, green, and purple-have been strategically installed along the shoreline. These flags are intended to guide beach visitors and ensure their safety. “The red flag indicates a high-hazard area where swimming is strictly prohibited due to large and dangerous waves,” Flores stated. “Yellow flags mark medium hazard zones with the potential for rough water, while green flags indicate calm waters and low risk.”

Flores emphasized that swimming is allowed in areas marked with yellow and green flags but will be closely monitored by the PDRRMO. Additionally, a purple flag alerts beachgoers to the presence of potentially harmful marine life, such as jellyfish. She noted that there are five beach towers along Lingayen beach staffed with personnel to provide assistance if needed.

Search and rescue teams from volunteer organizations and other government agencies are also on standby to ensure immediate response in case of emergencies. Flores encouraged other local government units in coastal areas to adopt the same color-coded system to promote safety throughout the province.

In light of the heightened holiday activities, the PDRRMO has elevated Pangasinan’s alert status to blue and has activated its command post starting Wednesday.