By Kenneth Marcos 
Residents along Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur, Tantanang Bay in Zamboanga Sibugay, and Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar are being warned against eating local shellfish after recent tests showed toxic levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP), commonly known as red tide. The contamination exceeds regulatory safety limits, making all types of shellfish and local alamang (š¯‘Øš¯’„š¯’†š¯’•š¯’†š¯’” sp.) unsafe for human consumption.
Fisherfolk and coastal communities are advised to avoid harvesting or selling clams, mussels, oysters, and similar shellfish from these areas until further notice. Eating contaminated shellfish can cause serious health risks, including numbness, tingling, and in severe cases, respiratory problems.
Authorities from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) emphasize that other seafoodā€”such as fish, squid, shrimp, and crabā€”remain safe to eat if they are fresh and properly cleaned. Fisherfolk and households should remove gills, intestines, and other internal organs before cooking to ensure safety.
Red tide events occur when harmful algae multiply rapidly, releasing toxins that accumulate in shellfish. These blooms are monitored closely because they can affect both public health and local livelihoods. BFAR continues to conduct regular water and seafood testing to inform communities and prevent health hazards.
Coastal residents are urged to stay updated with local advisories, follow safety instructions, and report any unusual fish or shellfish deaths to authorities. Awareness and caution remain critical to protecting families and sustaining safe seafood consumption during ongoing red tide events.
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