Red tide warning hoisted over 5 Visayas areas

MANILA, Philippines —  Coastal waters in five more areas in the Visayas have tested positive for toxic red tide, according to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).

The affected areas are Daram Island, Zumarraga Island and Cambatutay Bay in Samar.

Shellfish collected from Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar and Cancabato Bay in Leyte also tested positive for paralytic shellfish poison or toxic red tide.

The BFAR said the waters of Dauis and Tagbilaran City in Bohol, Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur and San Benito in Surigao del Norte remain positive for red tide.

These areas have red tide that is beyond the regulatory limit.

All types of shellfish and alamang gathered from these areas are deemed unsafe for human consumption.

The BFAR said fish, squid, shrimps and crabs are safe to eat provided these are fresh and thoroughly washed.