PhilSA warns of Chinese rocket debris falling near Palawan, Basilan

The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has issued a warning that debris from China's Long March 8A rocket launch may have fallen in Philippine waters near Palawan, Tubbataha Reef Natural Park, and Basilan.

Specific projected drop zones include areas off El Nido, Puerto Princesa City, and Tubbataha Reef in Palawan, as well as Hadji Muhtamad in Basilan.

The Long March 8A rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan, at approximately 9:33 a.m. on Thursday, Manila time.

While the debris is not projected to land on inhabited areas, PhilSA cautioned about the potential risks it poses to ships, aircraft, and fishing boats operating within the drop zone.

The public has been advised not to touch or retrieve any material suspected to be debris from the rocket due to potential toxic substances.

Additionally, the agency warned that the debris could potentially float and drift towards nearby coastlines.