ZAMBOANGA CITY (MindaNews / 6 January) — For PO3 Al-Shier Alimuddin, a Philippine Coast Guard personnel assigned in Siasi in Sulu, it was a case of being at the right time at the right place that he was able to save a boy who drowned in a resort’s swimming pool.
Photo courtesy of the Alimuddin family
On Monday evening, Alimuddin was attending a private family gathering at a resort in Cabatangan here at the tail end of the holidays when he heard the cries regarding a child who drowned.
Alimuddin rushed to where the commotion was beside the pool, and saw the boy already lying on the ground surrounded by family members.
A trained first aider like all “Coastguardians,” he immediately administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Alimuddin’s swift response and proper life-saving intervention restored the eight-year-old boy’s vital signs and pulse, reviving him.
The child was immediately transported to the nearest hospital for medical treatment.
MindaNews likewise chanced upon the ruckus and had the opportunity to interview the Coast Guard hero.
“I did not hesitate to immediately help even though I was on break because I still remain a Coast Guard personnel whenever and wherever I may be,” he told MindaNews in Tagalog. “With the grace of the Lord, I revived the child. It’s a great feeling because this is about saving a life,” he added.
Alimuddin advised parents to closely watch their children, especially in crowded places. “Especially in the pool or by the beach. Who knows if these kids know how to swim,” he said. “We should not let them get out of our sight to avoid accidents,” Alimuddin stressed. (Frencie L. Carreon / MindaNews)
