Philippine Coast Guard Recovers Suspected Chinese Underwater Drone Off Palawan

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has recovered a suspected underwater drone off the waters near Barangay Barangonan, Linapacan, Palawan, after local fishermen found the approximately 12-foot device during routine fishing operations. The drone, believed to be of foreign origin, features a Conductivity-Temperature-Depth (CTD) sensor with Chinese labeling and shows signs of prolonged saltwater exposure, indicating its use in oceanographic surveys for measuring salinity, temperature, and depth. The device has been secured at PCG Station Linapacan for detailed forensic examination and investigation in coordination with national security agencies. This incident continues a pattern of similar recoveries of autonomous underwater vehicles in Philippine waters since July 2022, with previous forensic analyses linking several devices to Chinese defense contractors due to components like China Telecom SIM cards and iridium transceivers. Philippine authorities emphasized the importance of community vigilance and a whole-of-nation approach to deter unauthorized marine activities and safeguard maritime domains. The PCG commended the fishermen for their role in reporting the find and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the livelihoods of local fisherfolk.