A group of students from Hagonoy, Bulacan, recently went viral after their boat was struck by massive waves while they were on their way home from school. The incident, captured on video by a Grade 10 student, was shared on social media and quickly gained attention.
The video, recorded around 9 AM, shows the powerful waves crashing against the boat as the students navigated the river to return to their island homes. The student’s mother explained that their family lives on an island, making boat travel necessary for the children to attend and return from school.
According to reports, the students were forced to go to school early despite the dangerous weather conditions due to a delayed announcement of class suspensions related to Typhoon Enteng. The late notice left the students and their families with little choice but to brave the risky journey.
The video, which quickly spread across social media platforms, sparked concern and discussions among netizens about the safety of students in similar situations. Many expressed their worry about the delayed class suspension announcements and the potential dangers that students face when traveling under such conditions.
In response to the incident, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. addressed the issue in an ambush interview. He acknowledged the concerns raised by the public and discussed the possibility of implementing more advanced announcements for class and work suspensions during severe weather conditions. The President emphasized the importance of giving timely updates to allow citizens to make necessary adjustments, particularly when heavy rains or storms are expected.
The viral video has also prompted calls for improved safety measures for students in areas where boat travel is essential. Local officials and school authorities have been urged to coordinate more effectively with weather agencies to ensure that students are not put in harm’s way due to delayed or insufficient warnings.
As the video continues to circulate online, it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by students in remote areas and the need for more proactive measures to protect them during extreme weather events. The incident in Hagonoy has brought attention to the broader issue of disaster preparedness and the critical role of timely communication in ensuring the safety of all citizens.