Fisherfolk have recovered debris believed to be from a rocket in waters off Barangay Suang Buna, Pangutaran, Sulu, according to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). The recovery occurred on December 30, 2025, and the debris is currently under the custody of the barangay. The PCG did not specify the origin, though photos show markings resembling the Chinese flag.
In a statement, the PCG reported that fisherfolk recovered and towed the debris on December 30, 2025. “The recovered debris is currently under the custody of Barangay Suang Buna,” said the PCG Sub-Station Pangutaran.
The PCG is actively coordinating with barangay officials to facilitate the transfer of the debris for proper handling and disposition. The agency did not identify the country of origin of the debris, but photos posted on the PCG's social media pages showed markings resembling the flag of China.
As of posting time, the Chinese Embassy in Manila has yet to issue a statement on the matter. This incident occurs amid ongoing tensions in the South China Sea, though the PCG statement makes no direct connection.
Sulu is part of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and Pangutaran is a coastal municipality. The recovery raises interest due to potential safety and international relations implications.
