By I. Inojales | 12:53 PM April 28, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has declared coastal waters in Dauis and Tagbilaran City free from red tide contamination, allowing the safe consumption of shellfish and other marine products in the area.
In its April 28, 2026 advisory, BFAR said laboratory tests showed no presence of Pyrodinium bahamense, the harmful algae linked to paralytic shellfish poisoning.
Shellfish samples analyzed by the Regional Fisheries Laboratory and the National Fisheries Laboratory Division were also found to be within safe levels, falling below the Philippine regulatory limit for toxins.
The latest findings prompted authorities to lift the precautionary red tide warning issued on March 12, 2026, which had temporarily restricted the harvesting and sale of shellfish to protect public health.
BFAR clarified that all shellfish species, including “alamang” (Acetes sp.), gathered from the waters of Dauis and Tagbilaran City are now safe for human consumption.
Regional Director Mario N. Ruinata said the agency will continue close monitoring of coastal waters in coordination with local government units to ensure marine safety and sustain the shellfish industry.
