Residents living near Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar were advised against consuming shellfish from its waters due to the continued presence of red tide.
In a statement, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said shellfish collected from the bay continues to test positive for saxitoxin, a toxin that causes paralytic shellfish poisoning.
Matarinao Bay covers the coastal towns of General MacArthur, Quinapondan, Hernani, and Salcedo in Eastern Samar.
All types of shellfish and Acetes species, locally known as alamang, from the area are unsafe for human consumption. The bay has been positive for red tide toxins since early January.
BFAR urged the public to refrain from gathering, selling, or consuming shellfish and alamang from the affected waters.
“Fish, squid, shrimp, and crabs are still safe to eat if fresh and properly cleaned,” the BFAR regional office said, advising consumers to remove internal organs and wash seafood thoroughly before cooking.
(With report from PNA)
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