BORACAY is about to get even better for scuba divers. The island, known for its stunning white sand beaches, is soon to be home to a Hyperbaric Chamber Center, a crucial addition to dive safety. This initiative is part of the Department of Tourism's (DOT) dive safety program, which also extends to other popular dive spots like Camiguin, Negros Oriental, Cebu, and Puerto Galera.
On May 21, 2024, Tourism chief Christina Garcia Frasco led the groundbreaking ceremony for Boracay's new hyperbaric chamber at the Ciriaco S. Tirol Memorial Hospital. This move is all about keeping divers safe, as the chamber treats decompression illness (the bends), which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
Frasco, alongside Aklan Gov. Jose Enrique Miraflores, Malay Mayor Floribar Bautista, and other tourism officials, emphasized that promoting Boracay isn't enough. "We need to improve the island's developmental pillars for long-term success. Ensuring our tourists' safety is a basic need," she stated.
A Crucial Step
Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority COO Mark Lapid echoed this sentiment, calling the center's construction "a crucial step" to boost safety and enhance the overall tourist experience.
Hyperbaric chambers are essential for treating symptoms of decompression illness, which include motor weakness, joint pain, fatigue, and rashes. With this facility, divers can enjoy Boracay's underwater beauty with an added layer of safety.
So, while Boracay continues to dazzle with its beaches and vibrant nightlife, it's also stepping up its game as a top-notch dive destination. This new center is a win for both the island's appeal and the well-being of its visitors. Dive on, but dive safe!
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