TAGUIG CITY – The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) has released a Science Advisory on Hazards and Risks from Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), commonly known as “red tides”, calling for urgent action to strengthen the country’s monitoring and management systems.
Since the first major incident in 1983, when Pyrodinium bahamense caused more than a thousand cases of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) in Samar and Sorsogon, HABs have expanded to at least 44 bays and coastal areas nationwide. These toxic blooms not only threaten public health, causing shellfish poisoning and fish kills, but also disrupt aquaculture, fisheries, and tourism, with past outbreaks causing millions of dollars in losses.
Academician Rhodora V. Azanza, the lead author of the advisory, said that the current HAB monitoring and management system, designed nearly three decades ago, needs urgent reassessment to address new challenges such as climate change, aquaculture expansion, and increased eutrophication.
NAST PHL recommends a science-based national framework integrating research, monitoring, and policy action. Key proposals include (1) upgrading detection systems using advanced tools and satellite-based forecasting in collaboration with the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA); (2) strengthening public awareness through education campaigns to reduce health risks; (3) conducting a nationwide conference to chart a future-oriented HAB management strategy.
As HAB occurrences typically peak during the Southwest monsoon (June–September), NAST PHL urges local governments, industries, and communities to remain vigilant and follow official advisories from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
The full advisory, “Hazards and Risks from Harmful Algal Blooms / Red Tides in the Philippine Archipelago: Policy and Action Plan Considerations,” is available at https://bit.ly/NASTAdvisoryHAB. (ANavarro/NAST PHL)
The National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines (NAST PHL) is an agency attached to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). It is mandated by law to recognize outstanding achievements in scientific research and development and to advise the President of the Republic of the Philippines and the cabinet on policies concerning science and technology in the country. For more updates, follow NAST Philippines’ (@nastphl) social media accounts.
