Senator Mark Villar: Sandy’s Act to help prevent tourist deaths from lack of medical aid

Senator Mark Villar has welcomed the Senate's third-reading approval of a measure designed to improve safety protocols and emergency medical services across the country’s tourism destinations.

Senate Bill No. 1926, officially titled the Child Tourist Safety Act and popularly known as "Sandy’s Act," mandates designated tourism zones to strengthen emergency preparedness and guarantee rapid access to medical assistance.

According to Villar, the proposed law was inspired by the tragic death of six-year-old Sandy O. Garovillas, who died from a severe allergic reaction after being stung by a jellyfish during a 2023 family vacation in Port Barton, San Vicente, Palawan.

“Sandy is only one of many nameless tourists who met their end while vacationing in spots lacking immediate medical aid and emergency response,” Villar said, pointing out that her case highlights the critical risks visitors face in remote tourist spots.

Under the bill, government-identified tourism areas must establish comprehensive safety mechanisms, including on-site emergency care and dedicated medical resources. Villar emphasized that these safeguards are crucial as the Philippines works to expand its tourism sector and build visitor confidence.

“Through Sandy’s Act, we will institutionalize immediate medical response and resources in identified tourism zones to prevent another tragedy like Sandy’s,” Villar said in Filipino. “No child or tourist should ever be put in danger simply because medical aid wasn't available.”

-Paraluman News