The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in Region VII has lifted most of the fishing restrictions earlier imposed in areas affected by water discoloration in Bais and Manjuyod in Negros Oriental, prompting the reopening of the Manjuyod White Sandbar to tourists.
BFAR, in an advisory on Wednesday, November 19, said fish samples collected from areas hit by the URC Bais distillery wastewater spill passed sensory evaluation tests conducted by the National Fisheries Laboratory.
Water quality tests conducted from Nov. 11 to 12 showed parameters within acceptable limits and no presence of coliform bacteria, it added.
With these findings, BFAR said residents may now resume fishing, collecting, and gathering aquatic products, including fish, crustaceans, and seaweeds, in areas previously placed under restriction.
It reminded the public to remove entrails and thoroughly rinse seafood before cooking.
However, BFAR maintained that harvesting of all shellfish and Acetes species or “alamang” remains prohibited due to elevated levels of plankton and Vibrio bacteria detected in North Bais Bay.
Following the advisory, Manjuyod Mayor Raffy Andaya issued Executive Order No. 59, lifting the suspension on visits and tourism activities at the Manjuyod White Sandbar that had been in place since Oct. 28.
The order allows the resumption of boat operations, resort activities, and other tourism services, subject to continued monitoring and compliance with environmental safety guidelines.
The municipal government directed its environment office, along with concerned agencies, to continue monitoring the area and to report any adverse findings immediately.
Tourism operators were also instructed to inform visitors of the updated guidelines.
Harvesting of shellfish and alamang in North Bais Bay remains banned under both the BFAR advisory and the executive order.
The new guidelines take effect on Thursday, Nov. 20, unless revised or revoked.*