Samar Province – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) 8 in Eastern Visayas reported on Tuesday that four bays in Samar province remain positive for red tide toxins. These areas include the coastal waters of Guiuan in Eastern Samar, Cambatutay Bay in Tarangnan, Irong-Irong Bay in Catbalogan City, and Matarinao Bay in General MacArthur, Quinapondan, Hernani, and Salcedo in Eastern Samar.
According to Philippines News Agency, BFAR-8, recent laboratory testing results indicate the presence of Pyrodinium bahamense, a toxic microorganism responsible for paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP). Despite the absence of a regional shellfish ban, local red tide advisories are in effect, and the public is urged to avoid gathering, selling, and eating all types of shellfish and Acetes sp., known locally as "alamang" or "hipon," from these affected areas. The BFAR assures that fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs are safe for consumption if they are fresh, thoroughly washed, and their internal organs are removed prior to cooking.
Local laboratories released the results of water and meat samples from these bays, collected on November 13, and have submitted samples to the main office for confirmatory testing and potential inclusion in future national shellfish bulletins. Continuous monitoring is being conducted, especially in areas with a history of red tide, covering several bays across Samar, Leyte, and Biliran Island. BFAR's regular analysis of water samples aims to ensure the safety of shellfish for human consumption in these regions.