Business · Philippines Bureau
Palawan waters closed for Chinese rocket launch debris zone
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has imposed a temporary ban on fishing and sailing in waters off Puerto Princesa and Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park on October 10 due to a scheduled Chinese space launch. The restriction designates the area as a potential drop zone for rocket debris.
LSN Philippines ·
CALAPAN CITY — Fishing and maritime activities will be prohibited in designated waters off Puerto Princesa and the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park on October 10 as part of safety measures for an upcoming Chinese space launch, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources announced.
The temporary closure establishes the waters as a designated drop zone for possible debris from the rocket launch. The ban applies to all fishing vessels and sailing operations in the affected areas during the specified date.
The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Sulu Sea, is one of the Philippines' most significant marine protected areas. The restriction underscores concerns over space debris and the need to protect both maritime safety and the integrity of the ecologically sensitive marine sanctuary.
Fishermen and vessel operators in the region have been advised to avoid the restricted zones during the period. The BFAR has not disclosed the exact duration of the ban or additional details regarding the scope of the closure.