In response to the detection of red tide, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has imposed a ban on shellfish in 11 areas across Eastern Visayas. The announcement came on Wednesday, highlighting the presence of harmful algae in various coastal regions. The affected areas include Cancabato Bay in Tacloban City, the coastal waters of Guiuan and Calbayog City, and Matarinao Bay spanning several towns in Eastern Samar. Earlier reports had already identified red tide contamination in seven other locations across Leyte, Samar, Eastern Samar, and Biliran, based on shellfish meat samples. The BFAR has issued a stern warning to the public against harvesting, selling, or consuming any shellfish, including small shrimp, from these contaminated zones. However, fish, squid, shrimp, and crabs remain safe for consumption provided they are fresh, thoroughly cleaned, and their internal organs are removed prior to cooking. The BFAR attributes the surge in red tide to unusual weather patterns, which have led to the upwelling of nutrient-rich sediments in shallow bays, fostering the growth of red tide microorganisms. These organisms thrive on the organic matter in the sediments, leading to blooms that are exacerbated by fluctuating current patterns. Red tide, a phenomenon where algae proliferate excessively, can turn water red due to the high concentration of toxic microorganisms, posing significant health risks.
