The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) has renewed its warning against the consumption of shellfish harvested from four areas due to the presence of paralytic shellfish poison (PSP), commonly known as toxic red tide. The advisory, issued in Shellfish Bulletin No. 6, series of 2025, on February 26, was reiterated by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council IX (RDRRMC IX) through Memorandum 20, series of 2025.
Affected areas where shellfish remain unsafe for human consumption include:
- Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur
- Coastal waters of Tungawan in Zamboanga Sibugay
- Coastal waters in Daram Island in Samar
- Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar
The public is strongly advised to refrain from collecting, selling, and consuming shellfish from these areas to prevent cases of paralytic shellfish poisoning, which can have severe and even fatal consequences.
The Dangers of Red Tide-Affected Seafood
Red tide is caused by the rapid growth of harmful algae that produce toxins harmful to both marine life and humans. Shellfish, such as mussels, oysters, and clams, accumulate these toxins in their tissues, making them unsafe to eat even if cooked.
Paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), the most common illness linked to red tide, affects the nervous system and can cause symptoms within minutes to hours after consuming contaminated seafood. These symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, and face
- Dizziness and headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty breathing and swallowing
- Muscle weakness, which can lead to paralysis in severe cases
In extreme instances, PSP can be fatal if respiratory failure occurs. There is no known antidote for PSP, and treatment is focused on supportive care, including respiratory assistance in severe cases.
Government Actions and Public Safety Measures
The DA-BFAR continues to monitor coastal waters for red tide contamination and regularly issues shellfish bulletins to update the public on affected areas. The agency emphasizes that while shellfish from these areas are unsafe, fish, squid, shrimps, and crabs can still be consumed if they are fresh and thoroughly cleaned, with internal organs removed before cooking.
Residents and seafood traders are urged to heed the advisory to prevent any health risks. The public is also encouraged to report any suspected cases of shellfish poisoning to local health authorities.
For updates on red tide advisories, the public may visit the DA-BFAR website or follow announcements from local disaster risk reduction and management offices.
