Sandy’s Act Passes Senate: What It Could Mean for Families

The Senate approved on third and final reading the Child Tourist Safety Act, also known as Sandy’s Act, which seeks to strengthen measures to prevent and mitigate risks and improve the safety of children and other tourists in Philippine destinations. The bill would require tourism establishments to adopt emergency and risk-mitigation plans to protect children and other tourists.

The bill was filed by Senator Risa Hontiveros following the death of six-year-old Sandy Garovillas, who died after being stung by a box jellyfish while on vacation in Palawan in 2023.

Philstar reported that while swimming at a beach resort in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Sandy was stung by a jellyfish and immediately brought to the resort’s reception area for help. However, the staff allegedly lacked the equipment and training needed to provide first aid or emergency medical care.

With no medical assistance readily available, other guests stepped in, including a medical student from France who performed CPR, a midwife who attempted to provide oxygen, and an American who identified himself as an army medic and recommended epinephrine. However, neither the resort nor the nearest pharmacy had any available.

Sandy was eventually rushed to a hospital, but the first hospital could not provide the care she needed. By the time she reached Roxas Medical Hospital, it was too late. Sandy had passed away.

Sandy’s family has since pushed for stronger safety measures in tourist areas.

“To Sandy’s parents and loved ones, we know that no law can ever undo the tragedy that took your child but, today, the Philippine Senate stands with you to ensure her memory becomes a lasting, living shield, for others,” said Hontiveros addressing Sandy’s parents, Sarah and Edward, who were present at the plenary session on Monday, September 14, 2026.

Hontiveros continued, “By passing this measure, hopefully, we are transfiguring your grief into a nationwide mandate for proactive risk prevention, comprehensive emergency planning, and immediate life-saving responses across all tourist establishments.”

“Sandy’s legacy will ensure that no other family will have to return from a vacation with a tragedy instead of a cherished memory,” she added.

For families planning their next beach trip or vacation, the measure puts an important idea into focus: child safety should be part of the destination itself.

Parents can only do so much. We can remind our children not to wander off, stay close to them—especially when they’re in the water—keep an eye on changing weather conditions, and pack a first-aid kit. But safety shouldn't rest entirely on parents.

Tourism establishments, local governments, and other stakeholders also have a role to play in making sure families are informed about possible hazards and that appropriate emergency measures are in place.

A safe family destination isn't simply one with beautiful views, clean rooms, or child-friendly activities. Safety also means knowing that systems are in place when something goes wrong.

The Senate's approval of the bill marks an important step, but the bill still has to go through the remaining legislative process before it can take effect.

Still, for parents, Sandy's story is a reminder that a family vacation should be about making memories—not wondering whether the place we brought our children to was prepared to keep them safe.

Hontiveros shared the good news on Instagram concluding her post with, “Sana tuluyan na po itong maisabatas para sa tunay na kaligtasan ng ating mga anak.”

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