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Wednesday, February 19, 2025

AFP: Drone retrieved in Bohol not in our possession

THE underwater drone retrieved in Bohol in 2024 was not in military custody, according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

AFP public affairs chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the Naval Forces Central (NFC) has contacted the individual who reportedly encountered and posted the video of the unidentified underwater vehicle (UUV) on social media.

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“The UUV is not currently in AFP’s possession, which limits our ability to conduct a forensic investigation at this time. We urge everyone else with knowledge of the equipment’s current location to coordinate with the nearest military or naval unit to facilitate its recovery and proper handling.” Trinidad said.

He said the person of interest is a resident of Barangay Bunga Mar, Jagna, Bohol. He revealed that he first saw the red-and-gray, drone-like object on 27 July 2024 floating on the waters between the towns of Valencia and Garcia Hernandez in Bohol province.

That particular person posted the video online after noticing trending Facebook posts related to sea drones and alleged espionage equipment linked to China.

“We assure the public of our commitment to securing our territorial waters and addressing any potential threats to national security. We also remind everyone to report similar incidents or discoveries to the proper authorities, including the AFP, to ensure prompt and appropriate action.” Trinidad said.

Earlier, the AFP through appropriate units, launched an investigation into the reported sighting of the UUV that recently went viral on social media.

The Philippine National Police-Maritime Group (PNP-MG), citing information from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), said Thursday that the recent video of an “unidentified floating object” in the waters of Bohol was not new since it was captured and reported to authorities on July 27, 2024.

“Per coordination with PCG-Bohol Substation, the unidentified floating object reported in Valencia and Garcia Hernandez was actually discovered last July 27, 2024 according to a Facebook post,” PNP-MG community relations chief Capt. Carina Oliquino said.

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