Red tide warning up in Sorsogon, Masbate

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) issued yesterday a red tide warning in Sorsogon Bay and Asid Gulf in Masbate.

BFAR-Bicol spokesperson Nonie Enolva said shellfish samples from the two bodies of water tested positive for paralytic shellfish toxin.

“The resurgence of red tide toxin is usually triggered by changes in climatic condition and presence of agricultural wastes that lead to harmful algal bloom,” Enolva said.

BFAR warned the public against gathering, selling, buying and eating all types of shellfish from the waters of Sorsogon City and Milagros in Masbate.

Fish, squids, shrimps and crabs are safe for human consumption provided they are fresh and washed thoroughly and internal organs, such as gills and intestines, are removed before cooking.