Gov’t expresses concern over Chinese rocket debris falling in Palawan

Metro Manila, Philippines – The government has expressed concern over the recent launch of China’s Long March 12 space launch vehicle, which resulted in debris falling into waters near Palawan on August 4.

In a statement, Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro noted the incident with concern and urged all spacefaring nations to adhere to international norms of responsible behavior in outer space activities, particularly in ensuring the safety and interests of other countries.“The Philippines takes this opportunity to urge all spacefaring states to conduct their space activities in a manner consistent with norms of responsible behavior, and with due regard to the rights and interests of other states,” Lazaro said. The statement follows public alarm in Palawan after multiple explosions were heard during the Chinese rocket launch, prompting local reports of a fireball in the sky and tremors on the ground.According to the National Security Council, the rocket debris fell around 21 nautical miles off the coast of Puerto Princesa and 18 nautical miles from the Tubbataha Reef Natural Park. National Security Adviser Secretary Eduardo Año condemned the launch as “irresponsible,” warning that the falling debris endangered both the local population and maritime navigation in the area.“[The launch] placed the people of Palawan at risk,” Año said, citing eyewitness accounts and loud detonations that caused widespread concern in several coastal municipalities. He confirmed that aerial and surface teams have been deployed to locate and recover any debris from the ocean.The Philippine Space Agency earlier issued a warning based on a Notice to Airmen released by Chinese authorities, which advised of a rocket launch but did not indicate the potential drop zone with sufficient detail.While no injuries or damage have been reported, the Philippine Coast Guard confirmed hearing at least five explosions in eastern Palawan during the rocket’s launch window between 6:14 p.m. and 6:42 p.m.The government reminded the public not to retrieve or approach any discovered debris, cautioning that it may contain hazardous materials such as toxic fuel residues.In line with a 2023 agreement between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Philippines reiterated its commitment to working with China on improving communication mechanisms related to rocket launches and post-launch procedures.