China rocket over Palawan? Launch trail seen over Puerto Princesa
MANILA – A suspected rocket trail believed to be linked to China’s Long March-12 launch was spotted over Puerto Princesa City, Palawan on Saturday, prompting authorities to warn the public against approaching possible debris.
The Philippine Navy’s Naval Command West documented the activity as part of intensified monitoring following the reported launch from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan Province, China.
At 3:37 a.m. Saturday, Navy personnel in Puerto Princesa observed a bright red trail moving from the northwestern to the southeastern horizon. The trail remained visible for about 44 seconds before disappearing.
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Personnel at Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park reported seeing a similar event at around the same time.
Three minutes later, personnel in Puerto Princesa heard two loud, explosion-like sounds, followed by three lower-intensity blasts, the Navy said in a statement Sunday.
Public safety warning
The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) has warned that debris from the rocket launch could fall within designated drop zones in Philippine waters.
Naval Command West urged residents, particularly fishers and other maritime workers, to report suspected rocket debris or unusual objects to the nearest authorities.
The public was also advised not to touch, approach or handle suspected debris due to potential safety and contamination risks./with a report from Priam F. Nepomuceno, PNA
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