Canyoneering guide hurt in Kawasan Falls mishap

Local

A CANYONEERING canyoneering guide was injured by falling rocks along one of the trails leading to the famous Kawasan Falls in Badian, Cebu

Badian Tourism Officer Earl Vincent Endab confirmed the incident, which happened on Thursday, Oct. 24.

The guide was sent for immediate medication and is currently safe, Endam added.

The incident happened shortly after the Badian Municipal Council denounced false social media claims that the world-renowned Kawasan Falls had “dried up.”

According to the Badian Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), the 39-year-old guide sustained abrasions on his left shoulder and bruises on his ribs after rocks fell during a guided canyoneering tour.

In a statement, the municipal government clarified that the incident was isolated and reaffirmed that strict safety measures remain in place for all adventure activities in the town.

“Canyoneering is one of Badian’s most iconic adventure experiences, attracting thousands of visitors each year who seek to explore the breathtaking canyons and crystal-clear waters leading to the world-renowned Kawasan Falls,” the statement read.

The local government reminded the public that canyoneering is a nature-based activity with inherent risks, as the terrain is shaped by natural forces such as water flow, erosion, and weather changes.

These may cause slippery rocks, strong currents, and rare occurrences of falling debris—factors that make the experience both challenging and exciting.

To reduce risks, the municipality said it enforces strict protocols, including mandatory use of helmets and life vests, the presence of trained guides, daily weather monitoring, regular equipment checks, and suspension of activities when conditions are unsafe.

“We assure the public that the recent incident was an isolated case and does not reflect the overall safety of the activity,” the town added.

Visitors were reminded that canyoneering in Badian remains safe and well-managed when participants follow safety rules and cooperate with accredited guides.

The rockfall incident followed the passage of a municipal resolution naming five individuals responsible for spreading false information online about Kawasan Falls.

Those identified were Elsy Jore Imperial of Tabuelan, Cebu; Rotalia Cabotaje Oponda of Mandaue City; Alexan Alimbon Masangay of Davao City; Robinson Velasco Jr. of Mexico, Pampanga; and Marlene Salazar Alejandro of Minglanilla, Cebu.

The council ordered the individuals to issue public apologies and retractions within seven days or risk being declared persona non grata under Municipal Ordinance No. 11, Series of 2023.

The Cebu Provincial Tourism Office also said it would release a travel advisory to correct the misinformation and reassure tourists that Cebu remains safe and open for visitors.(MyTVCebu)