NSC condemns 'irresponsible' China rocket launch that caused Palawan scare

The National Security Council (NSC) on Tuesday denounced the launch of China’s Long March 12 rocket that was seen over Puerto Princesa City in Palawan on Monday.

“We condemn in no uncertain terms the irresponsible testing done by the Peoples Republic of China of its Long March 12 rocket which alarmed the public and placed the people of Palawan at risk,” NSC Secretary Eduardo Año said in a statement.

“While no immediate damage or injury has been reported so far, falling debris from the launch poses a clear danger and risk to land areas and to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone,” he added.

“There is also a possibility for the debris to float around the area and wash toward nearby coasts,” Año further said.

According to a report on "Saksi," residents said the ground shook because of the blasts.

The Philippine Space Agency and the Philippine Coast Guard confirmed that the smoke trail and loud sound reported in Palawan were associated with China’s rocket launch.

The public was advised to remain vigilant and report any sightings of potential debris.

Año also advised the public against retrieving or coming in close contact with debris materials that may contain toxic fuel residues.

“Surface and aerial assets have been deployed early today to search for debris associated with the loud explosions caused by the Chinese rocket launch from Hainan Island,” Año said.

“We are coordinating closely with local authorities and coastal fishermen on this matter,” he added. — Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News