DAVAO CITY — Latest laboratory analysis of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) have established that some areas in Mindanao, including Davao Oriental, are still positive of “red tide” toxins and have thus been put under a so-called shellfish ban.
The coastal waters of Dumaguillas Bay in Zamboanga del Sur, Balite Bay in Mati, Davao Oriental, and Bislig Bay in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur have been found positive of red tide toxins.
Madilyn T. Navarce, regional health officer for Southern Mindanao, bared last week that the red tide organism is present in these coastal waters. Pollution, siltation and other forms of water disturbances can increase the level, Navarce said.
The town of Mati, in Davao Oriental, had already implemented the shellfish ban since year 2000, particularly in Balite Bay. An ordinance prohibits the harvesting of bivalves shells (tahong) in the area.
Navarce said bivalve products sold in the markets of Davao City are coming from other provinces that are not affected by the red tide.
She said the BFAR is strictly monitoring the transport of shell-meat to Davao City. It requires the issuance of health certificates from points of origin before it can be transported to any place. (Philippine Information Agency)
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