Some residents in Davao del Norte and Davao del Sur saw a streak of light across the sky early dawn on Thursday, December 4, 2024.
Netizens posted on social media videos and photos of the streak of light that reportedly lasted for several minutes.
In a statement, the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) said that “the objects seen in the videos are not consistent with meteor showers and are likely not of astronomical origin nor can be attributed to rocket launch debris.”
“The visual appearance of the objects resembles those of previously recorded space debris reentry events, such as those involving defunct rocket stages or satellites,” PhilSA added.
PhilSA said it would monitor the situation and would gather more accurate information.
“The Agency also advises the public to immediately inform local authorities if any of the debris is sighted. PhilSA further cautions against retrieving or coming in close contact with these materials, as these may pose potential health and safety risks,” PhilSA added.
PhilSA also confirmed the launch of Long March 3B rocket from China. The rocket was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan at around 1:55 p.m. (Philippine time) on Wednesday, December 3, 2024.