NSC condemns China over rocket debris near Palawan

Metro Manila, Philippines – The National Security Council (NSC) has strongly condemned the People's Republic of China for what it described as “irresponsible testing” of its Long March 12 rocket, whose debris reportedly fell off the coast of Palawan, causing alarm among residents.

In a statement, National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año said the loud explosions triggered by the rocket launch raised serious public concern in Puerto Princesa City and nearby coastal municipalities.

“[The launch] placed the people of Palawan at risk,” Año said. “Local residents saw a fireball in the sky that later exploded, shaking the ground.”

While no injuries or damage were reported, he warned that debris from the launch poses potential danger to aircraft, vessels, and nearby coastal areas. Surface and aerial teams have been deployed to locate any debris in waters near the suspected drop zone.

According to the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), the debris likely landed around 21 nautical miles off Puerto Princesa and about 18 nautical miles from Tubbataha Reef Natural Park. The agency had issued an earlier warning to relevant authorities following a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) from China about the aerospace activity.

The Philippine Coast Guard also confirmed hearing five loud explosions in eastern Palawan between 6:14 p.m. and 6:42 p.m. on Aug. 4, consistent with the Chinese rocket’s launch window. A condensation trail - typically associated with rocket launches - was seen in the sky.

Although there is no immediate threat to public safety or navigation, authorities have advised the public not to retrieve or come into contact with any suspicious debris, as it may contain hazardous materials such as toxic fuel residues.

The NSC said it is coordinating closely with local officials and fishermen, urging anyone who encounters debris to report it immediately to authorities.

The Chinese embassy in Manila has not issued a statement on the incident.