20 Marso 2024, Miyerkules
supports Fire Prevention Month
deepest sympathy to family of the late Danilo Halili
supports Women Month March
joins Christian nations in observance of Lenten season
welcomes Bagong Bayani Monico Lopez Caranay
Ch rocket debris likely off IS, Catanduanes coasts- PhilSA
By Nidz Godino
“While not projected to fall on land features or inhabited areas, falling debris poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through drop zone,” Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) said possible remnants from launch of Chinese rocket may have fallen into waters off Ilocos Sur and Catanduanes.
In an advisory, PhilSA said rocket debris was projected to have fallen within identified drop zones located around 78 nautical miles from Vigan in Ilocos Sur, as well as 194 nautical miles and 332 nautical miles from Panay Island in Catanduanes.
It also said debris could float around area and eventually end up on nearby coasts.
“Additionally, possibility of uncontrolled re-entry to atmosphere of rocket’s upper stages returning from outer space cannot be ruled out at this time,” PhilSA said.
Agency advised public to inform local authorities if suspected debris is sighted and to refrain from retrieving or coming in close contact with materials as these may contain remnants of toxic substances such as rocket fuel.
China launched new communications relay satellite, Queqiao-2, on Wednesday to support its lunar exploration ambitions. Long March 8 rocket carrying satellite lifted off from launch site in Wenchang, Hainan.
China said United States had “no right” to interfere in South China Sea, after Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington stood by its commitments to defend Philippines against armed attack in disputed waterway.
” United States is not party to South China Sea issue and has no right to interfere in maritime issues between China and the Philippines,” foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian told regular press conference in Beijing.
Blinken is in the Philippine capital Manila , his second visit since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.took office in 2022 as part of brief Asia tour to reinforce US support for regional allies against China.
“Military cooperation between US and Philippines must not harm China’s sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in South China Sea, and still less be used to provide platform for Philippines’ illegal claims,” Lin said in a response to question on Blinken’s earlier comments.
“China will continue to take necessary measures to resolutely defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and uphold peace and stability in South China Sea,” he added.
Beijing claims almost entire South China Sea , crucial route for global trade brushing aside competing claims from several Southeast Asian nations, including Philippines, and international ruling that has declared its stance baseless.
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