Rocket debris recovered in Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — A fisherman has recovered debris believed from a rocket launched recently by China, in the waters off Pangutaran in Sulu, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reported yesterday.

The local police said the fisherman, whose identity was withheld, was fishing near the coast of Barangay Suang Bunah on Tuesday when he spotted a  large floating object.

The fisherman towed the object toward the shore and informed village officials about his find.

The object bore an image of the flag of China.

The debris was placed under the custody of barangay officials while the PCG-Western Sulu station is facilitating the transfer of the object to the PCG for proper handling and disposition.

On Dec. 6, the PCG  warned that China would launch a Long March 7A rocket from Hainan.

Authorities said that debris from the rocket may fall in the waters off Basilan, Palawan and Sulu.

The public has been advised to report sightings of rocket debris and warned them not to touch the object as this may contain toxic substances. — Bella Cariaso