The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has released an update regarding the presence of paralytic shellfish poison (PSP), commonly known as toxic red tide, in certain coastal regions.
According to BFAR, four areas have exceeded the regulatory limit and are still positive for PSP, rendering the shellfish and acetes (alamang) collected from these locations unsafe for human consumption.
The affected areas identified are Dauis and Tagbilaran City in Bohol, San Pedro Bay in Samar, Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur, and Lianga Bay in Surigao del Sur.
BFAR emphasizes that all types of shellfish and acetes from these coastal waters should be avoided to prevent potential health risks associated with PSP.
"Shellfishes collected and tested from coastal waters of Dauis and Tagbilaran City in Bohol; San Pedro Bay in Samar; Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur; and Lianga Bay in Surigao del Sur are still POSITIVE for Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP) or toxic red tide that is beyond the regulatory limit," the advisory read.
"All types of shellfish and Acetes sp. or alamang gathered from the areas shown above are NOT SAFE for human consumption," it added.
On a positive note, BFAR confirms that fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs are safe for consumption as long as they meet certain criteria. It is essential that these seafood items are fresh and undergo thorough washing.
"Fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs are SAFE for human consumption provided that they are fresh and washed thoroughly, and internal organs such as gills and intestines are removed before cooking," BFAR said.
