Red tide ban up in 2 Pangasinan areas

DAGUPAN CITY, Philippines – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has warned the public against eating shellfish harvested from the coastal areas of Bolinao and Anda, Pangasinan due to red tide.

BFAR regional director Nestor Domenden on Friday said the waters of Bolinao and Anda were found to contain algae that cause the red tide.

Domenden said fish harvested from the two areas are safe for human consumption provided they are fresh and washed thoroughly and their internal organs removed before cooking.

He said market inspectors and administrators, and quarantine officers should demand auxiliary invoice or clearance from shellfish transporters or dealers, particularly those coming from other provinces or municipalities.

He said the requirement would ensure that the shellfish did not come from areas found positive for paralytic shellfish poisoning.