The Philippines on Friday urged China to provide advance notice before any rocket stages or debris fall within Philippine waters.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said early warnings would help minimize risks and allow local authorities to safely recover the materials.
“We just wish that perhaps they could warn us a little earlier so that we know the path of the rocket, where the path is and kung magbibitaw sila ng stages kung saan babagsak,” Marcos said during a press briefing.
He noted this was not the first time suspected Chinese rocket debris ended up in Philippine waters, but stressed that no law had been violated. “There have been no casualties… wala naman tinamaan. Hindi naman nagka-problema,” he said.
The President recalled speaking to Chinese leader Xi Jinping, saying: “We have no interest in your rockets. Just tell us where they will land, we will collect it and give it to you… kung may babagsak, kukunin namin sa dagat tapos dadalhin namin sa inyo. Wala naman problema.”
The Department of Foreign Affairs earlier raised concerns over China’s Long March 12 rocket debris entering Philippine maritime territory, calling on spacefaring nations to act responsibly. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año also condemned the launch, citing alarm and risk to Palawan residents, particularly in coastal barangays.
Authorities, including the Philippine Space Agency and Coast Guard, deployed assets to retrieve debris at sea and advised the public to “remain vigilant” following the rocket launch from Hainan.
Such incidents highlight growing concerns over uncoordinated space activity and its impact on neighboring countries. In response, Manila has emphasized its right to be informed and involved, given its geographic proximity and potential danger to coastal communities.
Going forward, the Philippines may seek formal mechanisms for notification and cooperation through ASEAN or international forums to strengthen maritime safety and preserve public security.
