Red Tide Toxin Detected by BFAR In Several Areas
RED TIDE ALERT – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) detects red tide toxins in different areas in the country.
Red tide is a phenomenon caused by algal blooms that deplete oxygen and release toxins in the waters. This phenomenon has a negative effect on marine species that could cause illness in both humans and other animals.
The harmful algal bloom also taints the water with red that usually affects shellfish. The public is advised to avoid eating several types of seafoods affected by red tide toxins because it is not safe for human consumption.
Last week, BFAR announced that the coastal waters of Pangasinan, Pampanga, Bataan, and other areas are contaminated with red tide toxins.
BFAR director and Agriculture Undersecretary Eduardo Gongona conducted a laboratory test with some shellfish samples. The agency finds out that the shellfish collected from the mentioned areas are positive for paralytic shellfish poison.
Here is the list of areas affected by the red tide:
- Sual in Pangasinan
- Pampanga
- Bataan (Mariveles, Limay, Orion, Pilar, Balanga, Hermosa, Orani, Abucay, and Samal)
- Puerto Princesa Bay, Puerto Princesa City in Palawan
- Dauis and Tagbilaran City in Bohol
- Irong-irong, San Pedro, and Silanga Bays in Western Samar
- Cancabato Bay in Tacloban City
- Leyte
The agency also informed the public that fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs can be eaten but need to be washed thoroughly before cooking and eating.
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