Explosions heard in Palawan following China's Long March 12 rocket launch

The Philippine Space Agency confirmed the launch of China's Long March 12 rocket, with explosions being heard in Puerto Princesa and nearby areas in Palawan.

In an advisory, PhilSA said the rocket was launched from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang city on Aug. 4 at around 6:21 p.m.

"Expected debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones approximately 21 [nautical miles] away from Puerto Princesa, Palawan and 18 NM away from Tubbataha Reef Natural Park," it stated.

The agency said details of the rocket drop zone were disclosed through a Notice to Airmen warning of an “aerospace flight activity.”

"PhilSA disseminated a pre-launch report to relevant government agencies and authorities prior to the launch," it added.

It reminded the public that unburned debris from rockets like the booster and fairing, though not projected to fall on land features and inhabited areas, poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone.

"There is also a possibility for the debris to float around the area and wash toward nearby coasts," it said. "Additionally, the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry to the atmosphere of the rocket’s upper stages returning from outer space cannot be ruled out at this time."

PhilSA asked the public to inform local authorities if suspected debris is sighted.

It also warned against retrieving or coming in close contact with such materials, as they may contain remnants of toxic substances.