The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday warned fishermen and coastal communities in Ilocos Norte and Cagayan to avoid designated zones where debris from a Chinese rocket launch may fall on Sunday night.
The advisory followed a notice from the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), which said China is set to launch its Long March 7A rocket from Hainan between 8:12 p.m. and 9:34 p.m. Portions of the rocket are expected to fall within two drop zones west of Luzon.
According to the PCG, the first drop zone lies about 72 kilometers off Burgos, Ilocos Norte, and 111 kilometers from Dalupiri Island in Cagayan. The second is roughly 128 kilometers from Santa Ana, Cagayan, and 150 kilometers from Camiguin Norte.
The Coast Guard District North Eastern Luzon has imposed temporary maritime restrictions and urged fishermen and small boats to stay away from both areas until debris recovery operations are completed.
The district also warned the public not to approach or attempt to retrieve any debris and to report floating objects or suspicious materials to the nearest Coast Guard unit.
China’s frequent rocket launches have triggered repeated safety advisories from Philippine authorities, with past incidents involving suspected debris washing ashore and alarming coastal communities.
The PCG said it is coordinating closely with PhilSA and other agencies and has deployed monitoring teams to ensure public safety.
