Red Tide Alert: Shellfish from Several Areas Remain Unsafe for Consumption
12 April 2024, Philippines - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Central Office has issued Shellfish Bulletin No. 07, Series of 2024, warning the public about the presence of toxic red tide in several coastal areas.
According to the bulletin, shellfish collected and tested from the coastal waters of Milagros in Masbate, Dauis and Tagbilaran City in Bohol, San Pedro Bay in Samar, Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar, Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur, and San Benito in Surigao del Norte have tested positive for Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP), also known as toxic red tide. The levels of PSP detected are beyond the regulatory limit.
As a result, all types of shellfish and Acetes sp., commonly known as alamang, gathered from these areas are not safe for human consumption. However, fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs are safe for consumption, provided they are fresh, washed thoroughly, and their internal organs such as gills and intestines are removed before cooking.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and avoid consuming shellfish from these areas until further notice. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Central Office will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
Read the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Central Office Facebook Post on this news story.