The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) gave a precautionary measure to the public, stating that the fish harvested from areas affected by the oil slick are deemed unsafe for human consumption.
According to the Bataan Oil Spill Bulletin on Thursday, the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) has continuously monitored the situation in fishing areas where the oil spill was transported. Fishing sampling is steadily conducted in Region 3, CALABARZON, and the National Capital Region (NCR), to evaluate the waters for traces of oil and grease.
Laboratory tests are also being carried out for the presence of harmful substances, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) to know if fish and other seafood in the said areas are safe for public consumption.
Results from the mentioned evaluation from specific areas around Cavite showed:
Noveleta and Rosario
The fish samples showed some degree of tainting with petrochemicals, albeit before any oil slicks were noticed.
Tanza, Naic, and Cavite City
The fish samples remained free from petrochemical contamination at the time the samples were taken.
Nonetheless, BFAR suggested that the general public refrain from buying and consuming the fish harvested from the areas affected by the slick. It was suggested, to avoid incidents of food poisoning, as a result of ingesting contaminated seafood.
Catch landings are being monitored, along with the market inspection, to ensure the safety and quality of fish and other seafood sold in local markets.
Ground validations are also being continued, simultaneous with the validation of affected fisherfolk according to the FishR database to ensure accurate documentation and support to impacted communities in coordination with the local government units.
On July 30, the local government of Bataan imposed a fishing ban in Limay, Bataan succeeding the maritime incident in the same area.
Subsequently, on Thursday, an order declaring a no-catch and no-sell zone for all shellfish was implemented in the coastal areas of Cavite, in light of the impacts of the Bataan oil spill.
DA-BFAR urged fisherfolks and the general public to remain calm and monitor the situation through the government authorities’ updates.
