Catanduanes warned on China rocket debris

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

THE National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has warned the people of Catanduanes and Panay to be vigilant following China’s rocket launch of the “Long March 4B,” which may pose a danger to their safety.

In an advisory issued by the NDRRMC on Tuesday, Civil Defense Deputy Administrator for Operations, Asec Hernando M. Caraig, Jr., stated that the People’s Republic of China is scheduled to launch the Long March 4B from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, between 9:16 and 9:43 AM on September 3, 2024.

Parts of this Long March 4B rocket are expected to fall within an identified drop zone approximately 243 nautical miles away from the Philippine Rise and 318 nautical miles away from Panay Island and Catanduanes.

“In this connection, the following actions are recommended as a precautionary measure during the window between 9:16 and 9:43 AM on September 3. The PCG, BFAR, DILG, and DENR-NAMRIA are advised to consider temporary restrictions and the issuance of notices to mariners, coastal navigational warnings, and NAVAREA XI warnings as applicable in the identified drop zones,” Caraig said.

“Concerned RDRRMCs in Regions XI and Bicol are required to continue monitoring and provide updates on this event,” he added.

Caraig also mentioned that PhilSA cautions the public against retrieving or approaching any materials to minimize the risk from remnants of toxic substances, such as rocket fuel.

“Personal protective equipment is recommended if contact with the debris is necessary. The public is advised to immediately inform local authorities of any suspected debris sighted at sea or on land,” he said.