MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) recovered debris bearing Chinese markings, believed to be from a rocket, along the shores of Burgos, Ilocos Norte, on Sunday, Nov. 9, even as the country battled the effects of Super Typhoon Uwan.
PCG personnel from the Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Burgos were conducting mobile and foot patrols to warn fishermen against sailing when they spotted suspicious metal debris washed ashore in Barangay Saoit.
The object, which displayed Chinese characters, was immediately cordoned off and reported to local authorities.
The CGSS Burgos coordinated with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) to safely recover and secure the debris by 9:30 a.m. for further assessment.
PCG personnel cautioned residents and fishermen to avoid touching or approaching the material while investigations are ongoing.
Authorities have yet to confirm if the debris is part of rocket stages previously launched by China, fragments of which have been found in Philippine waters in past years.
The discovery coincided with Typhoon Uwan’s onslaught across Luzon, which brought strong winds and heavy rainfall, forcing the evacuation of over one million people and causing disruptions to communications and power lines in 12 regions.