LIANGA, Surigao del Sur -- The seawater samples collected along the coastal waters of Barobo, Surigao del Sur demonstrated an increase in several Pyrodinium bahamense var compressum, a microorganism that causes paralytic shellfish poison (PSP), based on the released laboratory examination dated on October 15, as conducted by Fisheries Integrated Laboratory Section-Caraga.

To safeguard human lives and mitigate impacts on the shellfish industry, while waiting for the PSP test on the shellfish meat samples from the Central office, this warning was issued by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)  Caraga, as precautionary advice to the public to refrain from gathering, selling, and eating all types of shellfish and acetes sp., locally known as alamang or hipon from Lianga Bay.

On the other hand, BFAR Caraga chief issued an advisory saying that the fish, squid, crab, and shrimp are safe to eat provided that all entrails are removed and washed thoroughly with running water before eating.

The BFAR and LGU will continuously monitor the area concerned to safeguard public health and protect the shellfish industry.

The Lianga Bay in Surigao del Sur covers the coastal areas of the municipalities of Marihatag, San Agustin, Lainga, and Barobo. (PIA-Surigao del Sur)