The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) on Thursday confirmed the launch of China’s Long March 8A rocket from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan.

According to PhilSA, at around 9:33 AM, debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within identified drop zones located about 118 nautical miles from El Nido, Palawan; 137 nautical miles from Puerto Princesa; 45 nautical miles from Tubbataha Reef Natural Park; and 34 nautical miles from Hadji Muhtamad, Basilan.

Details of the drop zones were issued through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) warning of an “aerospace flight activity.” A pre-launch report was also provided to authorities before the launch.

PhilSA explained that unburned rocket debris such as boosters and fairings are typically discarded as the rocket enters outer space. While the debris was not projected to fall on land or inhabited areas, it still poses potential risks to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels passing through the drop zones.

“There is also a possibility for the debris to float around the area and wash toward nearby coasts,” PhilSA said.

The agency also noted that the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry of the rocket’s upper stages from outer space cannot yet be ruled out.

PhilSA urged the public to immediately report any suspected debris sightings to local authorities and cautioned against handling such materials, which may contain toxic remnants of rocket fuel.