The Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Maritime Unit 5 has confirmed that a Deep Argo float, used for collecting oceanographic data, that was recovered in the waters off Caramoran, Catanduanes is China-owned.

The research instrument was found on May 6, 2024.

According to investigations by various agencies, the instrument recovered was identified as belonging to Laoshan Laboratory based in Qingdao, China.

The instrument is used to gather information on temperature, pressure, and biological components beneath the sea.

Authorities are now coordinating with other agencies to determine how the device ended up in Philippine waters.

The Maritime Unit also urged the public to report any unidentified floating objects found at sea to ensure proper handling and disposition.

"Ito na po yung result nung investigation conducted by NISG (National Investigation Science Group)... our international counterpart. Sila po ang nagbigay ng findings na yun, although mayroon po na mga serial number coming from the US, but dito po sa findings nila lumalabas po na ito pong floating devices na ito ay gamit at pag-aari po ng Laoshan Laboratory in Qingdao, China," PEMS. Larry Ayende, spokesperson for the Regional Maritime Unit 5, said.