BFAR warns of red tide in several coastal areas

The Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) has issued Shellfish Bulletin No. 04 (Series of 2025), dated 6 February 2025, warning that certain coastal waters in the country remain positive for Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP), commonly known as red tide, at levels beyond the regulatory limit.

According to the bulletin, Dumanquillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur, the coastal waters of Leyte in Leyte Province, Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar, and the coastal waters of Tungawan in Zamboanga Sibugay are still unsafe for human consumption. DA-BFAR advises the public to refrain from harvesting, selling, buying, and eating all types of shellfish and Acetes shrimps (alamang) from these areas until further notice.

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

The agency also listed various areas free from red tide, including parts of Cavite, Negros Occidental, and Samar. DA-BFAR continues to monitor coastal waters nationwide and urges the public to stay updated through official advisories.

Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) is a serious illness caused by toxins found in shellfish contaminated by red tide. Symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes of consuming affected shellfish. Early signs include numbness of the face and mouth, alongside vomiting, dizziness, and headache. Paralysis of the hands and feet, gastrointestinal problems, and difficulty in breathing may follow as the condition worsens. In severe cases, PSP can cause respiratory failure when the lungs and other parts of the respiratory system become paralyzed. Untreated, death can occur within 12 hours after eating contaminated shellfish. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.