Biliran Island shellfish ban lifted as safety tests clear produce

TACLOBAN CITY — Shellfish harvesters in Biliran Island can resume operations after the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) lifted a ban on shellfish collection from the province's coastal waters, citing laboratory results showing the produce is now safe for human consumption.

The decision came following the release of BFAR's latest red tide advisory on Friday, September 4. Laboratory testing of shellfish samples from Biliran Island indicated that harmful algal bloom toxin levels have fallen below dangerous thresholds, clearing the way for commercial harvesting to resume in the area.

The clearance applies exclusively to Biliran Island waters. The ban on shellfish harvesting remains in effect for coastal areas of Samar and Leyte provinces, where testing continues to show elevated toxin levels in shellfish samples. Fisherfolk and merchants in those provinces face continued restrictions on shellfish collection and sale.

Red tide, caused by rapid algal bloom growth, periodically affects Philippine waters and can render shellfish toxic to consumers. BFAR routinely monitors affected areas and issues advisories based on laboratory findings to protect public health. The agency conducts regular testing before lifting harvesting bans in contaminated waters.