By Kenneth Marcos 
Public consultations set this October for updates on paralytic shellfish poisoning standards
For many coastal families, shellfish is both a source of food and income. But when water becomes toxic, the danger can be deadly.
To help keep the public safe and shellfish industries secure, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) will hold online public consultations this October to revise its safety standards on Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP).
The consultations aim to gather comments and suggestions on the amendment of Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) 235 series of 2010, which outlines quality control measures and safety guidelines for shellfish harvesting and distribution in the Philippines.
Schedule of consultations
BFAR has scheduled three separate Zoom sessions based on location:
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Luzon – October 14, 2025 (10:00 AM)
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Visayas – October 16, 2025 (10:00 AM)
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Mindanao – October 22, 2025 (10:00 AM)
Fisherfolk, local governments, shellfish producers, traders, and the general public are invited to attend and provide feedback.
The consultations are part of BFAR’s efforts to improve food safety standards, protect public health, and ensure continued access to local and international markets.
What is PSP and why it matters
Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) is a serious illness caused by eating shellfish that contain toxins from harmful algal blooms (red tide). These toxins can affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as numbness, dizziness, vomiting, and in severe cases, death.
Shellfish like tahong, talaba, and halaan are often harvested from coastal waters affected by these blooms. While the Department of Health (DOH) and BFAR issue regular bulletins on red tide, standards for testing and monitoring are due for updating to match global best practices and respond to climate-related changes in marine ecosystems.
The FAO 235 is the main policy guide for laboratories, local government units, and seafood exporters in detecting PSP toxins and ensuring that only safe shellfish reach consumers.
Why the update is important now
BFAR says that revising FAO 235 is needed to:
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Improve detection methods for PSP toxins
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Strengthen monitoring in shellfish-growing areas
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Align with international food safety standards
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Support the growing shellfish export industry
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Ensure the health of consumers and the livelihood of coastal communities
These changes will also help BFAR and local authorities respond faster to red tide incidents and prevent unsafe products from reaching public markets.
How to join or ask questions
Participants may register for their regional sessions through BFAR’s official website or contact the National Fisheries Laboratory Division – Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory by emailing atl@bfar.da.gov.ph for more information.
The results of the consultations will be used to finalize the new version of FAO 235, which will then be presented for approval and implementation.
BFAR encourages all stakeholders to take part and help shape safer, more resilient fisheries for the country.
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