Catbalogan City, Samar— Dr. Ronald L. Orale, a professor from the College of Engineering at Samar State University, is urging the local government to implement a ban on shellfish collection in the Antiao River Delta. This area, once part of a natural riverbank delta, has been impacted by reclamation activities, opening up fertile grounds where saltwater from the sea meets freshwater from the Antiao River—creating an ideal habitat for shellfish.
While the site attracts many individuals collecting these bivalves, likely for personal consumption or local market sale, Dr. Orale is raising serious concerns about the safety of these shellfish. Bivalves, such as clams and mussels, are filter feeders that draw in water and all its contents, including harmful pollutants from the surrounding environment.
Recent studies and data have revealed alarming levels of contamination in the Antiao River, with high concentrations of chemicals and biological pathogens. These dangerous substances pose significant health risks to those who consume shellfish collected from the waters. Dr. Orale pointed out that the water quality in the river is so poor, in some instances resembling sewage, further heightening the dangers.
Dr. Orale is urging the local government of Catbalogan City to consider a ban on shellfish collection in the delta to prevent health-related issues. "The protection of public health should be the priority," he said, emphasizing that continued collection of shellfish from the area could lead to serious foodborne illnesses.
As the city’s water quality continues to deteriorate, concerned citizens and environmental experts alike are calling for immediate action to safeguard the health of the community and prevent any further harm from the contamination of local water sources.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonNews