THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has updated its shellfish bulletin, revealing the presence of paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) or toxic red tide beyond the regulatory limit in several coastal areas.
Previously affected areas in Dauis and Tagbilaran City, Bohol; Dumanquillas Bay, Zamboanga del Sur; and San Benito, Surigao del Norte remain unsafe for shellfish harvesting, the BFAR said.
Meanwhile, Honda Bay in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, was included in the areas with red tide contamination.
The public is advised not to consume shellfish, including mussels, oysters, clams, and alamang, collected from these areas.
Fish, squid, shrimp, and crabs are still safe for consumption, but authorities recommend thoroughly washing them and removing internal organs before cooking.
BFAR reassures consumers that shellfish from other locations remain free of red tide toxins. These areas include Cavite, Manila Bay shorelines, Pangasinan, La Union, Pampanga, and various locations in Quezon, Palawan, Masbate, Sorsogon, Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Samar, Eastern Samar, Leyte, Biliran, Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, Camiguin, Davao Oriental, Davao del Sur, and Surigao del Sur.
Residents in these areas are advised to continue following BFAR advisories and to purchase shellfish only from accredited sources.
The Department of Health (DOH) echoed BFAR's warning and urged the public to be cautious when consuming shellfish.
Persons experiencing symptoms of red tide poisoning, such as numbness, dizziness, or difficult breathing, should seek immediate medical attention.