NDRRMC warns public of debris falling from China’s Long March 8A rocket

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) warned the public of possible debris due to China’s launch of its Long March 8A rocket on Wednesday.

“The People's Republic of China is scheduled to launch the Long March 8A from the Wenchang Space Launch Site sometime between 3:41 p.m. and 4:18 p.m. Philippine Standard Time on July 30, 2025,” the NDRRMC said in an advisory.

Parts of the rocket may fall within the identified drop zone, which is approximately 120 nautical miles away from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and 42 nautical miles away from Zamboanga City, Zamboanga Del Sur, the NDRRMC said.

The Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources - National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (DENR - NAMRIA) were asked to consider temporary restrictions and to issue Notice to Mariners, Coastal Navigational Warnings or NAVAREA XI warnings, as applicable, in the identified drop zones.

Further, concerned Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Councils in MIMAROPA and Region IX were required to continue monitoring and submit updates regarding the event.

“PhilSA cautions everyone against retrieving or coming in close proximity to these materials to minimize risk from remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended when contact with the debris is necessary,” the NDRRMC said.

“The public is advised to immediately inform local authorities of any suspected debris sighted at sea or [on] land,” it added. —VBL, GMA Integrated News