AFP probes sighting of alleged submersible drone in Bohol

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it is investigating the reported sighting of another supposed submersible drone spotted floating in the waters of Bohol province last week.

AFP Public Affairs Office Chief, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, stressed that all appropriate military units and forces, particularly the Naval Forces Central, are “actively coordinating and working together to gather details and ascertain the nature of this incident.”

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), through the Visayas Command, has prioritized the investigation into the reported discovery of unidentified equipment floating at sea,” Trinidad said in a statement on Wednesday.

Trinidad called on residents in the area to help the AFP locate the whereabouts of the alleged underwater drone or glider.

“At this time, the AFP does not have the equipment in its possession for conducting a forensic investigation,” he said.

“We urge the individual who discovered the equipment and posted it on social media to immediately coordinate with the nearest military or naval units to ensure the proper handling and disposition of the item.”

Trinidad said the AFP remains committed to safeguarding national interests.

“The AFP emphasizes its commitment to national security and calls on the public to remain vigilant. We encourage everyone to participate in safeguarding our nation by promptly reporting any suspicious activities or discoveries to the proper authorities, including the AFP,” he said.

In an undated video circulating online, a fisherman captured footage of a silver and red drone drifting near his boat, with parts of its body and tip already encrusted with barnacles.

Philippine Navy Spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, earlier said if the item spotted in Bohol is confirmed as an underwater drone or glider, then it would be the sixth of its kind discovered in Philippine waters.

This follows the submersible drone found in the waters of San Pascual, Masbate, last 30 December.