RED TIDE WARNING UP IN 6 COASTAL AREAS

SIX coastal areas in the country are affected by the toxic red tide, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said.

Based on Shellfish Bulletin no. 8 issued on April 30, the BFAR said among the areas that are positive for red tide are the coastal waters of Milagros in Masbate, San Pedro Bay in Samar, Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar, the coastal waters of Dauis and Tagbilaran City in Bohol, Damanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur and the coastal waters of San Benito in Surigao del Norte.

Shellfish collected from the areas tested positive for paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) beyond the regulatory limit.

According to BFAR, all types of shellfish and acetes or alamang gathered from the mentioned coastal waters are not safe for human consumption.

However, fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs from these areas are safe to eat provided they are fresh and washed thoroughly, and the internal organs such as gills and intestines are removed before cooking.