The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has warned fishermen in Palawan to temporarily avoid sailing and fishing in parts of the sea from the night of January 13 until the early hours of January 14 due to the possible fall of rocket debris from a satellite launch by China.
BFAR said the advisory will be in effect from 11:38 p.m. on January 13 until 12:14 a.m. on January 14 in waters near El Nido and Puerto Princesa City, as well as near Rozul Reef. The Philippine Space Agency identified these areas as “drop zone” sites linked to the launch of the Long March 8A rocket from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, China.
Authorities said parts of the rocket are expected to fall into the sea about 162 nautical miles from El Nido, 185 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa City, and 108 nautical miles from Rozul Reef. Other drop zones were also identified in waters near Basilan, Sulu, and the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.
BFAR clarified that no inhabited areas are expected to be hit, but vessels, fishing boats, and other watercraft passing through the drop zones could be at risk. Rocket debris may also float and drift toward nearby coastlines.
The Philippine Space Agency advised the public not to approach or retrieve suspected debris, warning that these may contain toxic substances such as rocket fuel. It said protective equipment should be used if necessary and urged the public to immediately report any debris found at sea or on land to local authorities.
The advisory was issued by BFAR Mimaropa in coordination with the Philippine Space Agency to ensure the safety of fishermen, seafarers, and the general public.
