ILOILO City – The Regional Maritime Unit 6 (RMU-6) has announced the availability of basic seaborne training for territorial police personnel.
This move comes in the wake of a tragic accident that claimed the life of Police Staff Sergeant Mechael Gatinao during an anti-illegal fishing operation in Guimaras Province.
According to Colonel Ervin John Provido, commander of RMU-6, the unit is prepared to conduct training and seminars focused on seaborne patrol techniques.
“We can provide basic training and seminars for our colleagues involved in maritime operations,” Provido said.
These sessions will cover essential safety protocols, such as handling incidents where someone falls overboard, appropriate gear usage, and other crucial safety measures.
On October 16, Gatinao fell from a motorized banca while on patrol in the waters of Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. His body was recovered two days later by local fishermen near Barangay San Isidro, Sibunag, Guimaras.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Jack Wanky, director of the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6), said an investigation is underway to determine if any protocols were violated during the operation.
He emphasized the importance of body cameras during operations and noted that failure to wear them, especially during nighttime patrols, is a breach of procedure.
“We are updating our protocols to ensure stricter safety measures during sea patrols, including the mandatory use of life jackets. Unit commanders have been instructed to prioritize the safety of their officers during maritime operations,” Wanky added.
This enhanced training and focus on safety aims to prevent future accidents during maritime operations, especially in the fight against illegal fishing activities in the region./PN
