Palawan explosion linked to rocket launch

The Philippine government has condemned China for what it called an “irresponsible” rocket launch that caused a powerful explosion heard across Puerto Princesa City and widespread alarm in Palawan province.

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año said in a statement Tuesday that the launch of China’s Long March 12 rocket from Hainan Island sent “shockwaves, literally and figuratively” across the province.

Residents reported seeing a fiery object and hearing loud booms that caused the ground to shake.

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) both confirmed that the noise was likely caused by a sonic boom from the rocket’s propulsion and stage separation.

The rocket’s flight path crossed near Palawan airspace, and its debris zones were identified about 21 nautical miles off Puerto Princesa and 18 nautical miles from Tubbataha Reef.

While no injuries or damage have been reported, Año warned that falling debris remains a serious threat to life and property.

The National Security Council noted that debris could pose a risk to ships, aircraft, and fishing vessels in the area and may even wash ashore, potentially carrying toxic fuel residues.

In response, Philippine authorities deployed surface and aerial assets early Tuesday to locate any remnants of the rocket.

Año urged the public to remain vigilant and to avoid touching any suspected debris, advising them to inform local authorities if any is sighted.

The incident comes amid ongoing tensions between Manila and Beijing over maritime disputes in the South China Sea.