PANGUTARAN, SULU — Authorities have urged the public to immediately report any debris from China’s Long March 8A rocket and warned against touching it due to potential chemical hazards, following the confirmed launch by the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) at 7:26 a.m. on January 1, 2026.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) previously reported the recovery of an alleged rocket debris off Barangay Suang Bunah, Pangutaran. The object, initially retrieved by a local fisherfolk on December 30, 2025, remains under the custody of the barangay as PCG coordinates its proper handling and disposal.
PhilSA has identified two potential drop zones in Philippine waters for parts of the Long March 8A. Drop Zone 1 is located approximately 108 nautical miles from El Nido, 126 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and 90 nautical miles from Rozul Reef. Drop Zone 2 is estimated at 32 nautical miles from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan; 42 nautical miles from Pangutaran Island, Sulu; and 46 nautical miles from the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.
Authorities emphasize that the debris may contain toxic substances and strongly caution the public against approaching or handling any recovered objects, urging immediate reporting to the PCG to ensure safety at sea.