The Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) has received information from the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) that the Korea Aerospace Research Institute will launch its space rocket “Nuri” on October 21, 2021 with the possibility of a delay between October 22 to 28 subject to weather and wind conditions. As per PhilSA report, the launch may cause the danger of falling rocket debris for ships, aircrafts, and other vehicles that will pass through the identified drop zones. The rocket debris may also wash offshore towards the Eastern seaboard in the future.
Offshore waters 730 kilometers from Sta. Ana, Cagayan and 383 kilometers from Tandag, Surigao Del Sur are among the identified drop zones within the country’s territorial waters. Hence, the DA-BFAR, based on the recommendation of the PhilSA, advises all fishing vessels to stay away from the affected area and avoid fishing and other offshore activities from 2:00 – 6:30 PM on the following locations and their corresponding coordinates:
| TIME | LOCATION/COORDINATES |
| 2:05 to 6:20 PM |  |
| 2:10 to 6:30 PM |  |
| 2:15 to 6:30 PM |  |
The PhilSA reported that the risk of rocket debris falling over the Philippine landmass is “minimal”. Nevertheless, coastal residents near the affected areas are advised to be on the lookout for floating debris that may wash ashore days, weeks, or even months after the launch.
