Chinese rocket seen above Palawan, debris to fall near TubbatahaSmoke trail of suspected Long March 12 rocket, as captured by the Philippine Navy's Western Naval Command, Jan. 19, 2026. MANILA, Philippines — China's Long March 12 rocket crossed Palawan airspace Monday afternoon, January 19, with debris projected to fall within waters near Puerto Princesa and Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. As of 5 p.m. Tuesday, January 20, no injuries, property damage, or debris impact on land had been reported, according to a Western Naval Command press release. The naval command monitored the event alongside the Western Command, Tactical Operations Wing-West, Philippine Coast Guard, provincial and city disaster offices, and the Philippine National Police Maritime Group. Debris risksUnburned rocket debris is designed to be discarded as rockets enter outer space.

Source: Philippine Star January 20, 2026 08:31 UTC