By Kenneth Marcos 
Early morning routines along the coast have changed for many fishing families. Instead of harvesting shellfish, some now return home with empty baskets, following a renewed warning meant to protect lives. Authorities say the danger is real and the public must stay alert.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has issued Shellfish Bulletin No. 01, Series of 2026, dated January 15, warning that several coastal areas in the country remain unsafe for shellfish consumption due to toxic red tide.
Based on laboratory tests, shellfish collected from Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur, Tantanang Bay in Zamboanga Sibugay, and Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar are still positive for Paralytic Shellfish Poison, or PSP. The toxin levels found in these areas are beyond the safe limits set by food safety regulations.
In addition, coastal waters in Bolinao and Anda towns in Pangasinan are now also positive for red tide toxin. This means the affected area has expanded, placing more communities at risk if warnings are ignored.
BFAR stressed that all types of shellfish gathered from these locations are not safe for human consumption. This includes tahong, talaba, halaan, and other shellfish, as well as Acetes species, locally known as alamang. Eating contaminated shellfish can cause serious illness and, in severe cases, death.
Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning is a dangerous condition caused by toxins produced by microscopic algae during red tide events. These toxins accumulate in shellfish without changing their taste, smell, or appearance, making them especially risky for unsuspecting consumers.
Symptoms of PSP can appear within minutes to hours after eating contaminated shellfish. These include numbness of the lips and tongue, dizziness, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and muscle paralysis. Health authorities warn that there is no antidote, and immediate medical attention is critical.
While shellfish are unsafe in the affected areas, BFAR clarified that fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs from these waters remain safe for consumption. However, they must be fresh, washed thoroughly, and properly cleaned. Internal organs such as gills and intestines should be removed before cooking to reduce any possible risk.
The agency urged local government units to strictly enforce fishing bans on shellfish in affected areas and to continue information campaigns in coastal communities. Warning signs should remain posted in public markets and along shorelines to prevent accidental harvesting and selling.
Red tide occurrences are often linked to changes in water temperature, weather patterns, and nutrient levels in the sea. The Philippines, with its long coastline and many fishing communities, is particularly vulnerable to these events. BFAR conducts regular monitoring to detect toxic blooms early and issue timely advisories.
For fishing families, red tide advisories bring economic challenges, especially for those who depend on shellfish gathering for daily income. Authorities encouraged affected workers to seek temporary alternative livelihoods and to coordinate with local governments for possible assistance.
Consumers are also advised to be cautious when buying seafood. BFAR reminded the public to avoid shellfish from unknown sources and to heed official bulletins before purchasing or consuming seafood products.
As monitoring continues, BFAR said updates will be released once toxin levels drop to safe limits. Until then, cooperation from the public remains essential to prevent illness and save lives.
The red tide alert serves as a reminder that food safety begins with awareness. Following advisories today can protect families and communities tomorrow.
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