TACLOBAN CITY– The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Eastern Visayas said that nine coastal areas in the region continue to be excluded from the “safe areas” list due to the presence of Pyrodinium bahamense, a toxic microorganism responsible for paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) or more known as red tide.
Based on its latest advisory issued, BFAR said that based on the seawater samples from these locations have tested positive for the harmful microorganism.
Villareal Bay, Villareal, Samar; Daram Island, Samar, Zumarraga Island, Samar; Maqueda Bay, Samar covering the towns of Jiabong, Motiong, Paranas, San Sebastian, Calbiga, Pinabacdao, and Hinabangan; Cambatutay Bay in Tarangnan, Samar; Irong-Irong Bay in Catbalogan City, Samar; and the coastal waters of Calbayog City, also in Samar.
Also detected with the red tide toxin are Matarinao Bay, Eastern Samar covering the municipalities of General MacArthur, Quinapondan, Hernani, and Salcedo; and the coastal waters of Guiuan, Eastern Samar.
In light of these findings, BFAR has enforced a strict prohibition on the collection, consumption, and sale of all types of shellfish and Acetes sp. (“alamang”) from these areas.
However, fish, snails, and other seafood that have scales from these waters are deemed safe for consumption, provided they are fresh, their internal organs (such as intestines) are removed, and they are thoroughly washed with running water.
Residents in these areas are urged to adhere to these guidelines to avoid health risks associated with PSP. BFAR continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary to ensure public safety.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
