A rocket launched by China on Monday night has led to suspected debris falling into waters near Palawan, raising safety concerns in the western part of the Philippines.
The incident followed the launch of the Long March-12 rocket from Hainan, China, which carried internet satellites into orbit.
Although no damage or injuries have been reported, people in Puerto Princesa City and nearby towns were startled by loud noises and a fireball that appeared in the sky.
Witnesses said the fireball exploded mid-air, with some reporting a shaking sensation on the ground shortly after.
The Philippine Space Agency tracked the rocket’s projected path and had earlier identified two possible drop zones for debris.
These were located about 39 kilometers from Puerto Princesa and 33 kilometers from Tubbataha Reef Natural Park in the Sulu Sea.
While the debris was expected to fall into the sea, officials warned it could still pose risks to passing aircraft, fishing boats, and other marine vessels.
According to the agency, rocket parts such as boosters and fairings are usually discarded as rockets leave Earth’s atmosphere.
These parts often fall back to Earth and can remain hazardous due to their size, weight, and possible fuel residues.
Philippine authorities deployed aircraft and ships on Tuesday to search the area for any debris.
The public has been urged to avoid approaching or touching any suspicious objects and to report any findings to local officials, as the items may contain harmful substances.
This is not the first time Chinese rocket debris has landed near Philippine territory.
In previous launches, parts have been found farther from inhabited areas.
However, the proximity of this latest incident has renewed concerns about safety and environmental impact.
Chinese officials have not responded to reports or confirmed whether nearby countries were informed in advance about the potential for falling debris.
The Philippine government continues to monitor the situation and is assessing any threat to public safety or marine activity.