Benguet State University’s Gender and Development Office (GAD), in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection-Cordillera Administrative Region (BFP-CAR) La Trinidad Fire Station, conducted its fifth training on Water Rescue Safety and Drowning Prevention. This event was held on October 30, 2024 at the Palm Grove Hot Springs and Mountain Resort in Asin, Tuba, Benguet.

The training started with remarks from Bryant O. Botengan, the Director of the BSU National Service Training Program. Botengan emphasized that the training is part of the university’s commitment to equipping individuals with essential skills. He hoped that the participants acquired these skills because they are crucial during emergencies.

Following Botengan’s address, participants from the university’s administration and academic sectors, including those from the Bokod campus, and trainers from the BFP were acknowledged.

Roy T. Calpi, SFO1 of the BFP-CAR La Trinidad Fire Station, urged the participants to give their full attention and cooperation throughout the training. He then introduced his team members: FO2 Brix A. Copsiyan and FO2 Christian B. Fadchal.

During the training, discussions were made on swimming techniques, water rescue strategies, and drowning prevention methods.

The training ended with participants sharing their insights and experiences. In his closing remarks, Botengan reiterated the application of the four pillars of learning. First is to ‘learn to know’ as we need knowledge as we go along in developing ourselves as life-long learners, second is ‘learning to do’ because by doing we gain more knowledge, third is ‘learning to live together’ or working collaboratively, and finally, ‘learning to be’ which is developing not just knowledge, but also personal growth.

Fadchal likewise encouraged the participants to continue learning. He also urged the participants to practice what they have learned and to face their fears.//BTayaban