[GMA-7: 24 Oras] Results of water sampling done by Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) last Friday, November 12, 2010 showed a lowering levels of saxitoxin.

November 10 sampling = 1,186 micrograms

November 12 sampling = 51-311 micrograms

Saxitoxin is the substance responsible for red tide poisoning. Tolerable limit is less than 40 micrograms so the existing red tide alert in Bataan cannot be lifted. The previous red tide in province lasted for one month.

Lowering level of saxitoxin is good indication of vanishing red tide. However, the end of this red tide phenomenon cannot be guaranteed.

Local government started to supply relief goods to affected residents. They are also planning to asked the help of the national government cause they cannot sustain the expected one month calamity.

BFAR analyzes  sea water sample every other day. They will lift the red tide alert once the toxin level is below the tolerable limit.