The archipelagic nature of the Philippines makes the country vulnerable to water related risks and maritime accidents especially during monsoon season. With the aftermath of the recent Guimaras Strait tragedy which claimed the lives of many passengers, the  focus has shifted to the importance of  water search and rescue trainings. Given this situation, the University Extension and Development Center spearheaded and facilitated the conduct of a  Water Search and Rescue Training activity last November 20-21, 2019 which was participated by members of WVSU- CDRRM, 604th Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion, ARESCOM and Knights of Columbus Visayas Jurisdiction.

The training aimed to equip the participants with knowledge on water search and rescue operations; identify various types of water environment; recognize and identify hazards common to all types of water; recognize and identify specific hazards unique to various underwater elements.