Manila, Philippines – The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) has issued a red tide advisory, imposing a shellfish ban in four coastal areas after detecting high levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP) or toxic red tide in seawater samples.
According to DA-BFAR Shellfish Bulletin No. 3, series of 2025, the affected areas include:
- Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur
- Coastal waters of Tungawan in Zamboanga Sibugay Province
- Coastal waters of Daram Island in Samar
- Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar
The agency warns that all types of shellfish and “alamang” (small shrimp) collected from these areas are unsafe for human consumption due to the risk of PSP, which can cause severe health issues. However, DA-BFAR clarifies that fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs from these waters remain safe to eat, provided they are fresh, thoroughly washed, and properly cleaned by removing internal organs such as gills and intestines before cooking.
Residents and fisherfolk in the affected areas are advised to refrain from harvesting, selling, and consuming shellfish until further notice. The public is urged to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories to prevent potential health hazards.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation and will issue updates as necessary. For further information, the public is encouraged to stay tuned to official announcements from DA-BFAR and local government units.
