LUUK, SULU – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recovered a large unidentified debris believed to be part of an aircraft after it was found drifting off the waters of Barangay Tandu Bato, Luuk, Sulu early Monday morning.
At around 6:30 a.m., a concerned resident alerted authorities about a massive floating object seen off the coast. Responding swiftly, personnel from the Coast Guard Station (CGS) Eastern Sulu were dispatched to the area and, with the help of a local boat operator, successfully towed the debris ashore.
Initial examination revealed that the object appeared to resemble a section of an aircraft’s outer shell. It was painted white, made of fiber-reinforced material, and had visible broken electrical wirings. The debris measured approximately 22 feet wide and 20 feet long.
To prevent it from being washed back to sea, the PCG secured the object along the shoreline while awaiting further investigation.
Authorities have yet to determine the debris’ origin or whether it came from a recent aircraft incident within or outside Philippine territory. The Coast Guard has coordinated with other relevant agencies to verify its source and identify any possible links to past maritime or aviation incidents.
In a statement, CGS Eastern Sulu thanked the residents of Barangay Tandu Bato for their vigilance and cooperation. “The immediate reporting by locals greatly contributed to the successful recovery of the debris and ensured maritime safety in the area,” the unit said.
The Philippine Coast Guard continues to monitor nearby coastal areas for any additional debris that may provide further clues to the mysterious object’s identity.