The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) on Saturday warned coastal communities and mariners in the western and southern waters of the Philippines about the potential danger from falling debris linked to China’s latest rocket launch.
PhilSA confirmed that China fired a Long March 8A rocket from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang at around 3:52 p.m., an activity earlier announced through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) identifying an “aerospace flight activity” affecting Philippine airspace and sea lanes.
Debris from the launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones approximately 120 nautical miles away from El Nido, Palawan and 140 NM away from Puerto Princesa, Palawan; 48 NM away from Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, 31 NM away from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan, and 40 NM away from Pangutaran Island, Sulu.
PhilSA stressed that falling rocket debris and uncontrolled re-entry events pose inherent risks to fishing communities, vessels, and the environment.
The agency urged the public to immediately report any suspected debris to local authorities and avoid retrieving or touching any material, which may still contain hazardous substances, including traces of rocket fuel.
“PhilSA reiterates its advice for the public to inform local authorities if suspected debris is sighted. PhilSA also cautions against retrieving or coming in close contact with these materials,” it said.
