Bodies of water encompassing Daram Island in Samar have tested negative for a toxic microorganism that causes red tide. In a Feb. 6 advisory, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) reported that recent seawater samples collected from the coastal waters of the island no longer have traces of Pyrodinium bahamense, a dinoflagellate known for producing the red tide toxin. Shellfish, locally known as “alamang” or “hipon,” harvested from the area were now safe for human consumption, bringing relief to local communities dependent on these resources for livelihood.

Gabieta, J. (2025, February 8). Daram Island in Samar cleared of red tide. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. A9.