The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Saturday cautioned fisherfolk and mariners to steer clear of specific maritime areas off Northern Luzon on June 23, warning of potential hazards from falling Chinese rocket debris.
According to the PCG District North Eastern Luzon, China is slated to deploy a Long March 7A rocket from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan. The launch window is expected between 10:02 a.m. and 11:04 a.m. Philippine time.
The maritime authorities noted that fragment drop zones have been projected off the shores of Cagayan and Ilocos Norte.
One of the designated danger zones is located roughly 42 nautical miles from Burgos, Ilocos Norte, and about 65 nautical miles from Dalupiri Island in Cagayan. A secondary impact site is estimated to be 60 nautical miles from Santa Ana, Cagayan, and 72 nautical miles from Camiguin Norte.
To protect seafaring vessels, the PCG has implemented temporary sailing restrictions and strongly urged operators of small boats and local fishermen to remain outside the specified perimeters during the scheduled launch window.
Furthermore, officials advised the public to avoid handling or moving any suspicious floating objects or beach debris that could be linked to the rocket, pointing out potential chemical or structural safety hazards.
“Any sighting of suspicious objects should be immediately reported to the nearest PCG station or local authorities for proper assessment and response,” the PCG said.
The coast guard emphasized that they are working closely with other government units to manage maritime safety and keep coastal populations informed.
“The Coast Guard continues to coordinate with relevant agencies and monitor developments to ensure the safety of mariners and coastal communities,” it added.