The Safe Swim-Drown Prevention Prevention Program. Handout photo.

MANILA — The Safe Swim-Drown Prevention Program is hoping to do its part in answering one of the leading causes of death among Filipino children.

The program, which is an initiative of chocolate milk brand Milo and the Philippine Red Cross, was launched after it was found that an average of 3,200 kids aged 0-14 lose their lives annually from a lack of emergency skills and training in the water.

Through Safe Swim, the two parties aim to ultimately encourage water confidence and safety in both parents and kids and to help pave the way in reducing the risk of more drowning incidents in the country.

The first programs were held across Quezon City, Pasig City, and Cavite City with the participation of nearby elementary school kids as they began their journey in water safety with Swimtech, which delivered fundamental swimming instruction. 

The swimming segment focused on basic water skills like floating, kicking, and staying calm, all serving as important techniques that form the backbone of drowning prevention. By learning these essentials, children are equipped to respond to situations that may lead to panic or drowning. 

Each participant gained skills that emphasized staying afloat and moving safely in the water, allowing them to build confidence and feel empowered during water activities.

The program's second half was led by experts from the Philippine Red Cross, who introduced children to first aid and emergency rescue techniques specifically designed for water safety. The kids learned the critical 'reach, throw, don't go' approach, which teaches them how to assist others in trouble without endangering themselves. 

This segment also included basic first aid principles, such as identifying safe and unsafe water practices, and ensuring participants gained the skills and knowledge to act responsibly in emergencies. The Philippine Red Cross training added a new layer of preparedness, emphasizing that knowing what to do can make a crucial difference in an emergency.

Through the Safe Swim program, both kids and parents have learned invaluable lessons — not only the technical skills but also the mindset and confidence to be safe in and around water. 

This initiative also aims for parents to see their children grow more self-assured and prepared, and for children to develop a deeper understanding of water safety fundamentals, contributing to a community-wide sense of water preparedness.