BFAR warns public after red tide, fish kills detected

Cagayan De Oro City — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Northern Mindanao has issued a red tide alert following water discoloration in Panguil Bay and the coastal waters of Lanao del Norte.

Edward Yasay, the bureau’s regional director, said in an advisory that laboratory analysis of plankton samples collected from the discolored waters revealed an algal bloom of Gymnodinium, a type of marine plankton that causes red tide.

Fish kills have already been reported in several coastal towns in Lanao del Norte. According to the bureau, the high density of the algal bloom can deplete oxygen levels or release toxins, leading to mass fish mortality.

Red tide toxins were also detected in shellfish collected and tested from the affected areas.

“The public is urged to avoid eating dead fish, ensure the seafood is clean and well-cooked, and avoid swimming in the area with discoloration,” the advisory stated.

The bureau clarified that fish and other seafood products remain safe for human consumption, provided they are caught fresh, show no signs of disease, and are washed thoroughly and eviscerated before cooking.

Residents are also advised to refrain from swimming in areas where water discoloration is still visible.