4 Vismin areas remain under red tide watch

DAGUPAN CITY, Philippines --– Shellfish collected from Balite Bay in Mati, Davao Oriental as well as in the coastal waters of Dauis in Bohol, Milagros in Masbate and Sapian Bay in Aklan, remain positive for algae that produces the red tide toxin.

In a bulletin dated Sept. 24, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) advised residents to refrain from harvesting and consuming shellfish found in these areas.

BFAR officer-in-charge Drusila Esther Bayate said the findings were based on laboratory results conducted on the water samples taken from these areas by the agency and the local government units.

“All types of shellfish and acetes or alamang gathered from these areas are not safe for human consumption,” the BFAR said.

Fish, squid, shrimp and crabs are safe provided they are fresh and washed thoroughly and its internal organs removed before cooking, the agency said.