Red tide warning is raised over areas in Samar. 

Based on the laboratory examination conducted by the Bureau of Fish and Aquatic Resources 8 - Provincial Marine Biotoxin Laboratory in Catbalogan City on July 15, 2024, the seawater samples collected from the waters of Daram Island, Zumarraga Island, and Maqueda Bay (Jiabong, Motiong, Paranas, San Sebastian, Calbiga, Pinabacdao, and Hinabangan) in Samar tested positive for Pyrodinium bahamense, a toxic microorganism that causes Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP).

Hence, BFAR 8 has issued a local red tide warning for these areas. 

In addition, the same warning remains in effect for Cambatutay Bay in Tarangnan, Samar, Irong-irong Bay in Catbalogan City, Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar (General MacArthur, Quinapondan, Hernani, and Salcedo), and the waters of Guiuan, Eastern Samar.

“To ensure public safety, especially for those residing near these areas, the harvesting, transporting, and consumption of all types of shellfish and Acetes sp., or “alamang," from these areas are prohibited,” BFAR 8 has warned.

For those consuming fish, squids, shrimps, and crabs from these waters, they are advised to ensure that these are fresh, properly washed, and that the internal organs and gills are removed before cooking.

According to a Shellfish Bulletin released by BFAR 8 on July 12, 2024, there is no shellfish ban in the region. 

This means that no shellfish meat samples from Region 8 tested positive for red tide toxin. However, everyone is still urged to heed the Local Red Tide Advisory issued for the said waters since last month. 

Meanwhile, shellfish meat samples from the region are regularly sent and analyzed to monitor the safety of the people and the affected fishing industries, the advisory added. 

(Info courtesy: BFAR Eastern Visayas)