The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) on Sunday issued a public advisory following the launch of China’s Long March 7 rocket, warning that debris from the mission was expected to fall within parts of the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

According to PhilSA, the rocket was launched from the Wenchang Space Launch Site at around 8:14 a.m. Philippine time on May 11.

The agency said projected debris from the launch was expected to fall within a designated drop zone located approximately 34 nautical miles from Bajo de Masinloc, 97 nautical miles from Cabra Island, and 130 nautical miles from Busuanga.

PhilSA explained that discarded rocket components, including boosters and fairings, are intentionally detached as rockets travel into outer space.

While the debris was not projected to hit inhabited areas or land features, authorities warned that the falling objects could pose risks to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels passing through the affected zone.

The agency also noted the possibility that some debris may float at sea and eventually wash ashore along nearby coastal areas. In addition, PhilSA said the risk of an uncontrolled atmospheric re-entry of the rocket’s upper stages “cannot be ruled out at this time.”

The advisory came after authorities received a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) regarding the “aerospace flight activity,” prompting PhilSA to distribute a pre-launch report to concerned government agencies and maritime authorities before the rocket launch.

PhilSA urged the public to immediately report any suspected rocket debris to local authorities and warned residents not to approach or retrieve unfamiliar metallic objects that may contain toxic substances, including remnants of rocket fuel.

The agency also called on international partners to strengthen regional coordination and safety protocols as global rocket launch activities continue to increase, citing growing risks posed by falling space debris to both aviation and communities on the ground.