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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Rocket-like debris with Chinese markings found in Sulu waters, says PCG

Rocket-like debris with Chinese markings found in Sulu waters, says PCG

Published Jan 3, 2026 04:25 pm
A suspected rocket debris with the marking of a Chinese flag is found floating off the waters of Pangutaran, Sulu on Dec. 30, 2025 by a local fisherman. (Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
A suspected rocket debris with the marking of a Chinese flag is found floating off the waters of Pangutaran, Sulu on Dec. 30, 2025 by a local fisherman. (Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)

The Philippine Coast Guard reported on Saturday, Jan. 3, the recovery of an alleged rocket debris with Chinese markings floating off the waters of Pangutaran, Sulu.
The PCG said a fisherman first spotted and recovered the object in the vicinity waters of Barangay Suang Bunah on Dec. 30, 2025 which had a marking of the Chinese flag on it.
The fisherman later towed the debris to shore and turned it over to village officials.
The Coast Guard Sub-Station Pangutaran said the debris remains under the custody of Barangay Suang Bunah as of this writing.
“The Coast Guard Station Western Sulu is coordinating with the concerned barangay for the possible transfer [of] the recovered debris’ custody to the PCG for proper handling and disposition,” the PCG said.
The Coast Guard has not yet released details on the debris’ origin or exact nature. An assessment will be conducted once the object is secured.
The PCG renewed its call for coastal communities to stay alert and urged the public to immediately report any unusual or suspicious objects found at sea to prevent possible harm.
Read: PCG advises public to watch out for debris as China launches rocket anew
It has yet to be determined if the debris is connected to China’s recent rocket launches.
To recall, China deployed its Long March 7A rocket into space but the launch occurred on Dec. 31 and the identified possible drop zones were located in Northern Luzon, specifically 45 nautical miles away from Burgos, Ilocos Norte; 67 nautical miles away from Dalupiri Island, Cagayan; 64 nautical miles away from Santa Ana, Cagayan; and 76 nautical miles away from Camiguin Norte.
The PCG reminds the public that if anyone sees any rocket debris, they should stay away from it and not touch it because it may pose potential hazards.
PCG spokesperson Capt. Noemie Cayabyab earlier warned that rocket debris could still contain toxic substances from the rocket fuel so it should not be touched without any protective gear.

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