MANILA -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Friday sent
condolences to the bereaved family of Gaia Trimarchi, the 7-year-old girl who
died from jellyfish sting while on vacation in Caramoan, Camarines Sur
DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat has instructed the agency to
extend full assistance and swift response to "urgent matters" related
to the incident.
The DOT issued an advisory to all stakeholders in the region, seeking
for a stronger measure to ensure the safety and security of tourists in the
area.
Currently, all DOT regional directors are meeting to discuss ways in
further improving engagement with all local government leaders in Philippine
tourist sites in creating a safe environment for visitors.
"This is in constant pursuit of our mandate to act as the primary
planning, programming, coordinating, implementing and regulatory agency in
promoting and developing tourism in the Philippines," the DOT said in a
statement.
Trimarchi, a Filipino-Italian swimmer, was wading through the shallow
waters of Sabitang Laya Island, the last stop in their Caramoan island-hopping
tour, when her mother heard her cry in pain. When her family got to her, part
of the child's leg already turned violet.
Trimarchi was declared dead on arrival at the Caramoan Municipal Hospital. (PNA/By Joyce Ann L.)
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