The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) confirmed on Tuesday that the explosion sound heard in the eastern part of Palawan on August 4 is linked to the launch of China's Long March 12 rocket.
In a post on X, PCG spokesperson Commodore Jay Tarriela said that the Coast Guard is monitoring the incident involving a series of five loud explosions—described as booming sounds—heard from the east, which aligns with a previously issued public advisory on a scheduled rocket launch from China.
"Upon immediate verification, a visible condensation trail was observed in the sky, consistent with rocket exhaust or propulsion," Tarriela said.
"This activity corresponds to the scheduled launch of China’s Long March 12 rocket, as detailed in the PCG’s prior advisory to the public," he added.
The launch took place between 6:14 PM and 6:42 PM from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan Province, China.
The PCG said that it continues to prioritize maritime safety and environmental protection in Philippine waters. Mariners and the public are advised to remain vigilant and to report any sightings of potential debris to the nearest PCG station.
Earlier, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) warned the public from Puerto Princesa City about possible rocket debris from the new rocket launch of China.
As of this writing, no immediate threats to safety or navigation have been reported as a result of the event.
Philippine Coast Guard Confirms Sound of Explosion Related to PRC Rocket Launch Activity
— Jay Tarriela (@jaytaryela) August 5, 2025
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has confirmed the monitoring of rocket-related activity in the eastern part of Palawan on August 4, 2025, where a series of five loud explosions… pic.twitter.com/SMqkxTLdkt
