The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) on Wednesday (Aug. 5) lifted the shellfish ban in Irong-Irong Bay in Samar after laboratory tests showed that shellfish samples collected from the area were negative for the toxic red tide toxin.
The lifting of the ban means shellfish harvested from Irong-Irong Bay are now considered safe for human consumption, based on the latest shellfish monitoring results.
However, BFAR said shellfish harvesting remains prohibited in Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar, covering the municipalities of General MacArthur, Quinapondan, Hernani, and Salcedo, as well as the coastal waters surrounding Biliran Island, where shellfish samples continue to test positive for paralytic shellfish poison (PSP), commonly known as red tide toxin.
Based on the advisory, harvesting, selling, transporting, and consumption of all types of shellfish, including Acetes sp. or ‘alamang,’ from the affected waters remain strictly prohibited to protect public health.
BFAR clarified that fish, squid, shrimp, and crabs caught in the affected waters are safe to eat, provided they are fresh and thoroughly cleaned.
Consumers are advised to remove the internal organs, such as the gills and intestines, before cooking and wash the seafood thoroughly under running water.
Red tide is caused by harmful algal blooms that produce toxins which accumulate in shellfish.
Consumption of contaminated shellfish may cause paralytic shellfish poisoning, which can lead to numbness, paralysis, respiratory failure, and even death in severe cases.
BFAR continues to conduct regular monitoring of coastal waters in Eastern Visayas and urged the public to follow shellfish advisories to avoid health risks