Red tide alert up in Bataan

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Philippines — A shellfish ban has been imposed in Bataan.

In its latest bulletin, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said shellfish gathered from the coastal waters of Hermosa, Orani, Samal, Abucay, Balanga, Pilar, Orion, Limay and Mariveles were found positive for paralytic shellfish poisoning that is beyond the regulatory limit.

All types of shellfish gathered in the area are not safe for human consumption, Danilo Abrera, BFAR-Bataan chief, said.

The 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.

Abrera said the last time Bataan was hit by red tide was in October 2014.