What Happened
Roman Sgiloda, a 27-year-old Czech tourist, died of severe head injuries after diving from a bar terrace into the sea in Moalboal at low tide, shortly after 10pm on a Saturday night.
Sgiloda and his three friends had been enjoying a drinking session at a bar near their resort. After excusing himself to go to the toilet, he returned, ran to the terrace, and dove into the shore.
The key factor: earlier that same morning during high tide, Sgiloda and his friends had been swimming in the same area. He failed to account for the tide going out — the water that had been deep enough to swim in that morning was no longer deep enough to dive into safely.
He was rushed to Badian Hospital but was declared dead on arrival from severe head injuries. The possibility of foul play was ruled out by police. Investigators examined whether the establishment bore any liability.
Why This Happens
The tidal range in Moalboal can be 1–1.5 metres, which is significant on a shallow reef coast. Bar and restaurant terraces that overhang the water are common along Panagsama Beach. During high tide they sit above swimmable depth; during low tide, the exposed reef below can be just centimetres below the surface.
The Response
After the incident, the Department of Tourism in Central Visayas issued safety reminders to all tourism stakeholders. Regional Director Shalimar Tamano stated: "The priority of the DOT Central Visayas is the safety and security of tourists. We want to remind our stakeholders about this regularly." Additional safety training for resort owners and staff was announced.
Safety Rules for Visitors
On the beach and at bars
- Never dive or jump from a height into the sea at night without checking depth first
- Remember that high tide ≠ low tide — conditions change every 6 hours
- Alcohol impairs depth perception and risk assessment — be extra cautious when drinking near the water
- If in doubt, wade in first to test the depth before jumping
While diving with operators
- Always dive with a certified and reputable dive center
- Never skip the pre-dive briefing
- Disclose any health conditions before diving
- Never dive alone
- The sardine run is very shallow — be aware of the drop-off into deeper water nearby
Moalboal Is Still Very Safe
This incident was a tragic accident caused by a combination of alcohol and failure to check tide conditions — not an indication that Moalboal is dangerous for tourists. Hundreds of thousands of visitors come here every year without incident. Exercise basic awareness, and you will have a wonderful, safe experience.