The Philippines condemns China’s latest rocket launch, which caused suspected debris to fall near Palawan on Aug. 4, 2025, Malacañang said. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the Philippines urged all spacefaring states 'to conduct their space activities in a manner consistent with norms of responsible behavior and with due regard to the rights of interest of other states.' The Philippine Coast Guard on Aug. 5 said at least five thunderous booms were heard off the eastern part of Palawan at around 6:30 p.m. shortly before a smoke trail — believed to be from rocket propulsion — was seen streaking across the sky. In its initial investigation, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said the noise that startled residents in Puerto Princesa, Palawan and nearby coastal villages was consistent with the acoustic shockwave — or sonic boom — produced during the high-altitude flight and stage separation of space rockets. The event coincided with the launch of China’s Long March 12 rocket from the Hainan International Commercial Launch Center in Wenchang, Hainan province, which took place between 6:14 p.m. and 6:42 p.m. on Aug. 4. No injury or damage was reported.
VIDEO BY CATHERINE VALENTE
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