PCG warns of possible China rocket debris in areas of Cagayan, Ilocos

TUGUEGARAO CITY, CAGAYAN — As China is set to launch another Long March 7A rocket on Tuesday, June 23, the Philippine Coast Guard District North Eastern Luzon (CGDNELZN) on Saturday issued temporary maritime restrictions for safety of seafarers and travelers.

“Small craft operators and fishermen are advised to avoid the designated drop zones, maintain a safe distance from any possible debris, and immediately report any sightings to the nearest Coast Guard unit,” the PCG said in an advisory.

This came after the People’s Republic of China has set anew a rocket launch of the Long March 7A from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Wenchang, Hainan, between 10:02 a.m. and 11:04 a.m. Philippine Standard Time on June 23.

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Parts of the Long March 7A rocket are expected to fall within the identified drop zones, both within the country’s exclusive economic zones.

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The first drop zone has been estimated 42 nautical miles (NM) from Burgos, Ilocos Norte, and 65 NM from Dalupiri Island, Cagayan.

The second drop zone has been estimated at 60 NM from Santa Ana, Cagayan, and 72 NM from Camiguin Norte in Calayan, Cagayan.

“Do not approach, touch, or attempt to retrieve any suspected rocket debris. Report any floating objects or suspicious findings immediately to Coast Guard personnel or local authorities,” the PCG added.

The Philippine Space Authority (PhilSA) has noted that the risk of untoward incidents and damage from falling rocket debris within Philippine territory is relatively low.

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“However, out of an abundance of caution, PhilSA recommends actions related to marine access during the window of 10:02 a.m. to 11:04 a.m. PhST on 23 June 2026,” said Dr. Gay Jane Perez, Presidential Adviser on Space Matters, in a separate advisory.

The executive brief on the rocket launch will also be distributed to the members and guest observers of the multi-agency Technical Working Group (TWG) on Orbital Debris Protocols led by PhilSA, she noted.

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“The TWG serves as an advisory body for coordinating, discussing, and formulating the country’s strategies and mechanisms for responding to rocket launches and other anticipated outer space activities that may affect Philippine territory,” she added. /apl

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