Chinese rocket debris possibly falls near Tubbataha Reef, 3 other areas

The Philippine Space Agency has released a map showing four possible drop zones for the debris of the latest rocket launched by China on Thursday, October 16, 2025 . — Photo from PhilSA

MANILA, Philippines — Debris from a Chinese rocket may have fallen either near the Tubbataha Reef Natural Park or three other areas, according to the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA).

This, as the Long March 8A rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Hainan Island at around 9:33 a.m. on Thursday.

Aside from 45 nautical miles (NM) away from Tubbataha Reef Natural Park, the rocket debris could have gone to 118 NM away from El Nido, Palawan; 137 NM away from Puerto Princesa, Palawan; and 34 NM away from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan.

“While not projected to fall on land features or inhabited areas, falling debris poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone,” PhilSA said in a statement on Thursday.

PhilSA said unburned debris from rockets, such as the booster and fairing, are designed to be discarded as the rocket enters outer space.

Last August, explosions believed to be related to a Chinese rocket launch were heard in the eastern part of Palawan, according to the Philippine Coast Guard.

READ: West PH Sea: Explosions heard in Palawan after Chinese rocket launch

Previously, debris from a Chinese rocket was found in the Philippine territory.

In July 2022, a Chinese rocket’s fairing was found afloat by local fishermen in Dimipac Island in Busuanga, Palawan.

READ: Chinese rocket debris found near Mindoro Strait

In November 2022, another resident from Busuanga town found a piece of metal that appeared to be debris from a Chinese rocket Long March 5B.

READ: Debris from Chinese rocket found floating off Palawan shores /das