Shellfish ban up in 4 areas

MANILA, Philippines — A shellfish ban has been issued in four areas in the country after their bodies of water were found to contain algae that produces the red tide toxin.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said the ban covers Dumanquillas and Matarinao bays in Zamboanga del Sur and Eastern Samar, respectively, as well as the coastal waters of Leyte town in Leyte and Tungawan in Zamboanga Sibugay.

“All types of shellfish and Acetes sp. or alamang gathered from these four areas are not fit for human consumption,” the BFAR said.

Fish, squids, shrimps and crabs are safe for human consumption provided these are fresh, washed thoroughly and their internal organs such as gills and intestines are removed before cooking.