Debris warning up as China launches rocket today

MANILA, Philippines — Fishermen and crewmembers of vessels transiting in the waters off Basilan, Palawan and Sulu have been advised to be wary of debris from a rocket that will be launched by the Chinese government today.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) informed fishermen and crewmembers to stay clear from areas identified as drop zones for the rocket debris.

PCG deputy chief for maritime safety services Capt. Jomark Angue issued a two-page navigational warning on Wednesday, stating that China is expected to launch a rocket between 3:40 a.m. to 4:16 a.m. today.

Angue issued the warning after receiving information from the Philippine Space Agency (PSA) about the launch of a Long March 8A rocket from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan.

The PCG advised the public to avoid going to areas where debris is expected to fall.

It said that rocket debris may fall some 62 nautical miles away from El Nido, 185 NM from Puerto Princesa and 101 NM from Patag Island.

Other possible drop zones were estimated to be approximately 32 NM from Hadji Muhtamad in Basilan, 44 NM from Pangutaran Island in Sulu and 47 NM from Tubbataha Reefs and Natural Park.

The PCG District Palawan advised residents to refrain from touching or retrieving any part of the debris as this may contain toxic chemicals.

The public has been encouraged to report to authorities sightings of suspicious floating objects.