Manila, April 1 -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued a man from drowning at the Bislak River in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte, on Tuesday while carrying out its intensified monitoring of tourist hotspots across the country.

In a message to reporters on Wednesday, PCG press officer Joy Gumatay said the incident is the first near-drowning incident monitored by the agency amid Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa 2026 (Oplan Biyaheng Ayos).

Following the rescue, an initial investigation revealed that the victim was under the influence of alcohol when he attempted to swim in the river.

"The PCG reminds the cottage owners in the area to strictly enforce the no swimming policy for all rivergoers under the influence of alcohol," the PCG said.

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