Badian assures public Kawasan Falls safe despite snake sightings

CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Badian local government has assured tourists that Kawasan Falls remains safe and open to visitors despite recent reports of snake sightings.

The LGU stated that these encounters form part of the area’s natural ecosystem and do not pose an immediate threat to the public.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the Municipal Tourism Office acknowledged public concern following reports of snakes in the popular tourist destination, which attracts thousands of local and foreign visitors each year for its waterfalls and canyoneering activities.

“We wish to assure all residents and visitors that Kawasan Falls remains safe and open to the public,” the local government said.

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It explained that the attraction lies within a protected forest and river ecosystem that naturally serves as a habitat for wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and snakes.

“As a protected natural attraction surrounded by forest and river ecosystems, the area serves as a natural habitat for various wildlife species, including birds, reptiles, and snakes. Occasional sightings of wildlife may occur, particularly in less disturbed portions of the environment,” the statement read.

Safety measures remain in place

The Municipal Tourism Office said it continues to monitor the area in coordination with concerned government agencies and site management personnel while enforcing visitor safety measures.

Authorities urged tourists to stay within designated trails, viewing areas, and authorized canyoneering routes and to avoid approaching, disturbing, or attempting to handle wildlife encountered during their visit.

The local government also announced plans to install additional information and warning signages in strategic areas to strengthen public awareness and remind visitors to remain alert while respecting the area’s natural habitat.

READ: Health centers must be equipped vs venoms

“Our trained tourism personnel, guides, and emergency responders remain on duty to ensure the safety and welfare of all guests in the Kawasan Falls area,” the statement added.

The LGU emphasized that snake sightings do not automatically indicate danger because not all snakes are venomous.

DOH issues snakebite reminders

Alongside the advisory, the Municipal Tourism Office reminded the public to follow the Department of Health’s recommended first-aid measures in the event of a snakebite.

The DOH advises the public to:

Stay calm and reassure the victim.

Keep the victim still and immobilize the bitten limb using a splint or sling, if available.

Bring the victim immediately to the nearest hospital or health facility.

Remember that antivenom remains the only effective treatment for venomous snakebites.

The health department also warned against common but dangerous practices, including applying a tourniquet, cutting or sucking the wound, placing ice or herbal remedies on the bite, massaging the affected area, giving unprescribed medication, or raising the bitten limb above heart level.

Visitors urged to stay vigilant

The Badian local government encouraged visitors to remain vigilant, observe all tourism safety protocols, and immediately report wildlife sightings to tourism personnel or emergency responders.

“Thank you for your continued cooperation and support in keeping Kawasan Falls safe, responsible, and nature-friendly for everyone,” the statement said.

Kawasan Falls, one of Cebu’s top tourist destinations, draws visitors for its turquoise waters, multi-tiered waterfalls, and canyoneering adventure routes.

The municipal government said preserving the area’s natural ecosystem remains part of its commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism while ensuring visitor safety.

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