The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) issued Memorandum No. 371 to alert residents, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority, and the Regional DRRMC Mimaropa about the launch of a Long March 12 rocket by the People’s Republic of China.
The said launch is set to occur between November 30 and December 5 at the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan.
Additionally, the advisory stated that the launch will occur between 8 p.m. and midnight, with rocket debris anticipated to fall in designated drop zones, approximately 28 nautical miles from Rozul Reef and 108 nautical miles from Quezon, Palawan.
The NDRRMC also advised mariners to temporarily restrict navigation in areas where debris is likely to fall.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) advised the public against retrieving or approaching rocket debris due to the potential risks of toxic substances, such as rocket fuel.
The use of personal protective equipment is highly recommended if handling the debris becomes unavoidable.
The public is urged to report any suspected debris spotted at sea or on land to local authorities immediately.
