Red tide alert up in Samar, Leyte

MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has imposed a shellfish ban in Leyte and Samar.

In Shellfish Bulletin 25, BFAR said shellfish gathered from Cancabato Bay in Tacloban City and Daram Island in Western Samar were found positive for the algae that produces the red tide toxin.

Irong-Irong, Cambatutay, Villareal and Maqueda bays in Western Samar as well as Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar and Carigara Bay in Leyte remain positive for paralytic shellfish poison.

All types of shellfish gathered in the area are not safe for human consumption.

BFAR said fish, squid, shrimp and crab are safe to eat provided they are fresh and washed thoroughly and internal organs are removed before cooking.