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Matarinao Bay in Eastern Samar positive for red tide toxin

Matarinao Bay in the Province of Eastern Samar (specifically in the Municipalities of General MacArthur, Quinapondan, Hernani, and Salcedo) is under shellfish ban. According to an advisory of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) on July 14, 2025, shellfish meat samples collected from Matarinao Bay are found positive for red tide toxin (saxitoxin). 'Hence, all types of shellfishes and Acetes sp. locally known as 'alamang' or 'hipon' from this bay are not safe for human consumption,' the BFAR advisory read. Further, filtered seawater samples collected from Irong-Irong Bay (Catbalogan City, Province of Samar) remains positive for Pyrodinium bahamense, a dinoflagellate that produces red tide toxin (saxitoxin). 'The public is also advised to refrain from gathering, selling, and eating all types of shellfish and Acetes sp. locally known as 'alamang' or 'hipon' from this area to avoid possible Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP),' the BFAR advisory added. Further, BFAR said that fish, squid, crab, and shrimp are safe to eat provided that these are 'fresh, all entrails are removed, and washed thoroughly with running water before cooking.'