Red tide alert issued for Carigara Bay; shellfish bans expanded

TACLOBAN CITY — Authorities have declared a public health alert for Carigara Bay following the confirmation of red tide-causing organisms in recent water testing, prompting an immediate ban on shellfish gathering and consumption in the affected area.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) cautioned residents and commercial operators against harvesting, transporting, or selling shellfish from the bay, citing contamination risks. The agency's seawater analysis confirmed the presence of harmful algal bloom organisms capable of producing toxins that accumulate in shellfish and pose serious health risks to consumers.

The warning comes as existing shellfish bans remain in force across two additional bays in Samar and Eastern Samar provinces, signaling a broader regional concern over harmful algal blooms. BFAR officials urged the public to monitor official advisories for updates on the status of affected fishing areas and to refrain from consuming shellfish from unverified sources.

Red tide events, triggered by rapid algal multiplication in coastal waters, have periodically disrupted fishing operations and posed public health challenges across the Philippines. The organization said it would continue monitoring water conditions and would issue further guidance as test results become available.