NDRRMC warns of falling debris from China rocket in waters off Palawan

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office has cautioned the public about the possible falling debris in waters off Palawan from China's Long March 12 rocket that was scheduled to be launched on Monday evening.

The Philippine Space Agency said the rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan, around 6:21 p.m. 

"Parts of this Long March 12 rocket are expected to drop within the identified drop zone, which is approximately 21 NM (DZ 1) away from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and 18 NM (DZ 2) away from Tubbataha Reef Natural Park," the NDRRMC said.

The PhilSA said details of the rocket drop zone were disclosed through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) warning of an “aerospace flight activity.”

PhilSA disseminated a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies and authorities before the launch. 

The agency cautioned the public against retrieving or coming near these materials to minimize risk from remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended when in contact with the debris is necessary.

"The public is advised to immediately inform local authorities of any suspected debris sighted at sea or land," the NDRRMC said.

The NDRRMC said the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-NAMRIA) were advised to consider temporary restrictions and the issuance of Notice to Mariners, Coastal Navigational Warnings, or NAVAREA XI warnings as applicable in the identified drop zones.

MIMAROPA RDRRMC was required to continue monitoring and submit updates on this event. –NB, GMA Integrated News