The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) warned that the debris from China's rocket launched on Tuesday may have fallen near the waters off Cagayan and Ilocos Norte.

PhilSA said the Long March 7A rocket from the People’s Republic of China was launched from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Wenchang, Hainan at around 10 am on Sept. 9.

"Expected debris from the rocket launch was projected to have fallen within the identified drop zones approximately 58 nautical miles away from Dalupiri Island, Cagayan, 37 nautical miles away from Burgos, Ilocos Norte, 92 nautical miles away from Camiguin Norte, Cagayan, and 79 nautical miles (from) Santa Ana, Cagayan," it stated.

"Unburned debris from rockets, such as the booster and fairing, are designed to be discarded as the rocket enters outer space. While not projected to fall on land features or inhabited areas, falling debris poses danger and potential risk to ships, aircraft, fishing boats, and other vessels that will pass through the drop zone," it added.

PhilSA also noted a possibility for the debris to float around the area and wash toward nearby coasts.

"Additionally, the possibility of an uncontrolled re-entry to the atmosphere of the rocket’s upper stages returning from outer space cannot be ruled out at this time," the agency stated.

It also reiterates its advice for the public to inform local authorities if suspected debris is sighted and warns against retrieving or coming in close contact with the materials from the rocket that may contain remnants of toxic substances such as fuel. Robina Asido/DMS