Authorities responded to a false alarm Friday after individuals set off emergency flares near White Island without any actual emergency, prompting provincial officials to issue a stern warning against the misuse of distress signals.

Occidental Mindoro’s Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) and Philippine Coast Guard personnel mobilized their Sea Ambulance to investigate after spotting a social media video showing flares being discharged near White Island off San Jose town.

“We strongly remind all citizens not to misuse emergency flare lights in non-emergency situations,” the PDRRMO said in a statement.

Upon arrival, responders interviewed a caretaker at White Island who reported witnessing a motorized boat carrying several men leaving the shoreline.

The caretaker observed the individuals releasing two emergency flare light signals despite no apparent distress situation.

Coast Guard and PDRRMO staff continued searching the area until approximately 11:30 p.m. to ensure no actual emergency had occurred.

Officials noted that misusing emergency flares can cause unnecessary alarm and confusion within the community, while potentially diverting emergency resources from genuine crises.

Photo by PDRRMO Occidental Mindoro