Despite the solemnity of Holy Week, tragedy cast a long shadow over the nation’s beaches and rivers.

According to the Philippine National Police (PNP), drowning once again emerged as the leading cause of death during Holy Week 2025, with 18 incidents recorded from 13 to 18 April across seven regions.

Fifteen lives were lost — many of them children — turning moments of rest and reflection to heartbreak for dozens of families.

In the Ilocos region, two minors drowned, while Cagayan Valley recorded injuries to one minor and one adult.

In Central Luzon, three adults died while another was injured. Calabarzon mourned the loss of two minors and two adults.

Mimaropa reported the death of one minor. In the Bicol region, two minors and one adult perished.

Western Visayas recorded the death of one minor, while in the Cordillera Administrative Region one adult drowned.

The PNP, under Ligtas SUMVAC (Summer Vacation) 2025, deployed over 68,000 personnel nationwide to safeguard travelers and pilgrims. This included 19,000 policemen stationed in churches, 18,000 along major roads, 8,000 at transport terminals, 10,000 in commercial areas, and 12,000 in tourist destinations and recreation sites.

But even with the heightened security presence, accidents proved swift and unforgiving.

“These heartbreaking incidents remind us just how quickly joy can turn to tragedy,” said PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil in a statement.

“I appeal to everyone to never leave minors unattended near water, to always wear life vests, and avoid swimming in areas without lifeguards or safety supervision.”

Drowning has long been a recurring threat during the summer season. Between 1 April and 31 May 2024, 97 individuals died in similar incidents.

Holy Week also saw two road accidents in Metro Manila and Cagayan Valley, an arson case in Negros Occidental, and three separate fires in Metro Manila, Eastern Visayas and the Zamboanga Peninsula.