photo: PRO5
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has started conducting an investigation into the recovery of a submersible drone off the waters of San Pascual town of Masbate on Dec. 30.
“The Philippine) Navy is currently conducting further investigation to determine its origin and purpose,” said AFP spokesperson Col. Xerxes Trinidad.
The submersible drone was recovered by local fishermen near the sea waters of Barangay Inirawan in San Pascual town at around 6:15 a.m. It was later turned over to the local police force.
Trinidad said the drone was already turned over to the AFP.
He said the turnover of the recovered submersible drone only underscored the importance of collaboration with local fisherfolk and maritime stakeholders.
“We commend their vigilance and continued support in reporting suspicious activities and encourage ongoing cooperation to ensure the effective monitoring of our territorial waters,” said Trinidad.
“The AFP is fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of our maritime domain, with all necessary resources mobilized to address similar and other situations with the utmost diligence,” he added.