The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in Central Visayas has partially lifted the fishing ban in Bais City and Manjuyod, Negros Oriental, following a major wastewater spill that occurred in late October.
The decision, announced on Wednesday, allows fishermen to resume the collection and gathering of most aquatic organisms after laboratory tests confirmed fin fish, crustaceans, and seaweeds from the affected areas are safe for consumption.
BFAR-7 reported that fish samples collected from the areas affected by the spent wash spill “passed the sensory evaluation” used to detect the presence of molasses taint. Additionally, water quality assessments conducted in mid-November showed “acceptable limits” for water parameters and “no detectable coliform bacteria.”
Despite the partial lifting, a prohibition remains in effect for the collection, gathering, and consumption of all types of shellfish and alamang (krill) in North Bais Bay. The agency cited high levels of plankton and Vibrio spp.—bacteria that can cause illness—as the reason for the continued restriction in this specific area. Fish cage operators have also been urged by BFAR-7 to safeguard their stocks against potential hypoxic situations that may arise from existing algal blooms.
The original fishing ban was issued on October 28, two days after spent wash from the Universal Robina Corp.’s (URC) Bais Distillery spilled into the bay on October 26, causing widespread water discoloration and subsequent fish kills. Daily monitoring is being conducted by URC, the Philippine Coast Guard, BFAR, and other government and private entities to ensure the continued safety of the bay.
Lt. Marionne Abigal Enopia, commander of the Coast Guard Station-Negros Oriental, confirmed that while the water is visibly “clear,” sea travel for passenger seacraft, such as tourist boats headed for the White Sand Bar in Manjuyod, remains suspended. Resumption of tourism-related sea travel is pending an official declaration from local government units.