The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has declared shellfish and tiny shrimp from Biliran Island safe for consumption, lifting the previous ban. However, red tide warnings remain active in other areas. The ban persists in Eastern Samar's Matarinao Bay, affecting several municipalities, as well as in Leyte, Leyte. BFAR cautioned that cooking does not destroy the toxins responsible for paralytic shellfish poisoning, which accumulate in filter-feeding species like mussels and clams. While shellfish from these restricted zones should be avoided, other marine products like fish, squid, and crabs remain safe to eat, provided they are fresh, thoroughly cleaned, and have their internal organs removed before preparation.
Source : Inquirer
Photo : Inquirer
