Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar positive for red ride toxin —BFAR

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) advised the public that Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar tested positive for the red tide toxin.

According to BFAR's Dec. 13 shellfish bulletin which was released to the public on Tuesday, results of tests conducted by the agency and local government units showed the coastal waters of the following areas were positive for paralytic shellfish poison that is beyond the regulatory limit:

• Bataan (Mariveles, Limay, Orion, Pilar, Balanga, Hermosa, Orani, Abucay and Samal)
• Puerto Princesa Bay, Puerto Princesa City in Palawan
• Dauis and Tagbilaran City in Bohol
• Irong-irong, San Pedro and Silanga Bays in Western Samar
• Cancabato Bay, Tacloban City in Leyte
• Lianga Bay in Surigao del Sur

All types of shellfish and ‘alamang’ are not safe for human consumption, BFAR warned.

Fish, squids, shrimps and crabs from these areas can be safely eaten as long as these are fresh and washed thoroughly, and gills, intestines, and internal organs are removed prior to cooking, BFAR added. —Joviland Rita/KG, GMA News