I am thankful that social media became an integral part of our daily lives. Through social media, we are updated with the latest trends and we can freely share inspirational stories.
Truthfully, there are a lot of untold stories of wonderful people on earth. Some of them get shared while some choose to keep it on down low. Either way, these stories are inspirational.
Having said, I’m glad to have known this person, who was reported by their Barangay Kagawad Leroy Alviz, as someone who spends his free time watching after the kids playing in the river located at Olongapo, City. The courageous volunteer’s name is Tonton “Tonzkie” Basa.
He volunteered as lifeguard of the river. The netizens tagged him as the #SafetyMan. Here’s why:
Last February 25, 2016, three children drowned in the said river in Olongapo, City. According to Inquirer.net, the victims lived at Barangay (village) New Ilalim, which is near Tonzkie’s residence.
According to Leroy, Tonzkie volunteered wholeheartedly to be the river’s lifeguard to spare the kids from drowning. In fact, when I asked Tonzkie via Facebook chat, why did he volunteer, he proudly answered:
my bata na po kasi nalunod sa ilog. lge naman po akong naka tambay dun kya po nagvolunteer po ako. ok lng naman po skn na wla bayad gs2 ko lng po mka tulong.
Rough translation:
[I volunteered because] there was a kid who already died from drowning. I’m always in the area doing nothing anyway, so I decided to volunteer. It’s okay with me even though I don’t get paid, as long as I can help.
He told me that he patiently stands or sits  by the river, always ready to serve.  Source: Leroy Alviz
Leroy’s full caption:
Salamat Tonzkie Basa sa pag volunteer na sawayin ang mga bata sa Brgy. New Kababae at ibang kalapit na Barangay nito na maligo sa ilog dahil ito’y malalim at delikado. sana dumami tulad mo.
Ultimately, Tonzkie’s reason to become the lifeguard in their village (New Kababae) is to prevent another child from drowning in their area. He reassured me that no one else will drown as long as he is there.
Thank you and we wish you all the best, #SafetyMan!
Were you moved by his kind gesture? Tell us what you think in the comment section below!
