By I. Inojales | 03:16 PM February 24, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY—Coastal waters of Dauis and Tagbilaran City have tested positive for the presence of Pyrodinium bahamense, a toxic dinoflagellate that causes paralytic shellfish poisoning, prompting authorities to issue a local shellfish advisory.
In an advisory dated February 23, 2026, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 7 said laboratory analysis conducted by the Regional Fisheries Laboratory on water samples collected on February 20 confirmed the presence of the harmful microorganism.
As a precautionary measure while awaiting the results of shellfish meat analysis, authorities warned the public against gathering, selling, and consuming all types of shellfish and Acetes species, locally known as “alamang,” harvested from the affected coastal waters.
Fish, squid, crab, and shrimp, however, remain safe for human consumption provided that their entrails are removed and the meat is washed thoroughly under running water before cooking.
BFAR, in coordination with concerned local government units, assured the public that continuous monitoring is being undertaken in the affected areas to safeguard public health and minimize the impact on the local shellfish industry.
Regional Director Mario Ruinata urged residents and traders to strictly comply with the advisory to prevent possible cases of shellfish poisoning.
