Visitors to Kawasan Falls in Badian, Cebu will soon see warning signages reminding them to stay alert following reports of cobra sightings in the popular tourist destination.
The Badian municipal government, through its Municipal Tourism Office, announced that it will strengthen safety measures by installing information and awareness signages in appropriate areas within the Kawasan Falls and canyoneering site.
The move came after concerns surfaced online over reported encounters with cobras in and around the area.
In a Facebook post, netizen Jo snake encounters.
McKee said the proposal was not meant to discourage visitors but to raise awareness and help prevent possible snakebite incidents.
He noted that some sightings had been shared online while others may have gone unreported.
“It only takes 30 minutes for the venom to take effect,” McKee wrote, while also raising concerns about the availability of antivenom during emergencies.
The Badian LGU assured the public that Kawasan Falls remains safe and open to tourists despite the reported wildlife sightings.
“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 municipal government said.
The Municipal Tourism Office said it continues to monitor the area in coordination with concerned agencies and site management personnel while implementing visitor safety measures.
Tourists were advised to stay within designated trails, viewing areas, and authorized canyoneering routes, and to avoid disturbing or attempting to handle wildlife they may encounter.
The local government also clarified that snake sightings do not automatically pose an immediate danger to visitors.
“Most importantly, not all snakes are venomous, and snake sightings do not automatically mean an immediate danger to visitors. 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 LGU said.
The municipal government also reiterated the Department of Health’s recommended response to snakebite emergencies.
The public was advised to keep calm, immobilize the affected limb, and immediately bring the victim to the nearest hospital or health facility. Authorities emphasized that antivenom remains the only effective treatment for venomous snakebites.
The DOH also reminded the public not to apply tourniquets, cut or suck the wound, use ice or herbal remedies, massage the affected area, or take medication unless prescribed by a doctor.
The Badian LGU urged residents and visitors to follow safety protocols and immediately report wildlife sightings to tourism personnel or site management while visiting Kawasan Falls.
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