A suspected Chinese rocket was recovered by coast guards near a Philippine island.

The metal debris was found by a local fisherman floating off the seaside village of Cuyo in Palawan province, on September 22.

Philippine Coast Guard spokesman Jay Tarriela said in a statement: 'This incident follows China's rocket launch on September 16, 2025, which involved a Long March 2C rocket with a Yuanzheng-1S upper stage. The mission, conducted from an undisclosed location, is part of China's ongoing efforts in space exploration, including satellite deployment and technological advancements.

'Upon discovering the debris, Barangay Captain Alena Lagan Macaslin promptly informed the Coast Guard Station Eastern Palawan. In collaboration with local authorities, the area has been secured to ensure public safety and facilitate proper handling of the materials.'

The debris has been handed over to the Coast Guard District Palawan to be sent to the Philippine Space Agency for verification.

Locals were advised to immediately report any suspected rocket debris to the nearest Coast Guard station.

Space colonisation efforts have gained momentum in recent years, driven by both private enterprises - like Elon Musk's SpaceX - and governments aiming to establish permanent habitats beyond Earth.

This includes the strategic use of Earth's orbit for satellites and other space infrastructure, such as the Starlink internet satellites and GPS technology.

However, space colonisation is also being driven by the hunt for raw earth metals and other as yet undiscovered substances that could aid life on Earth.

Some proponents also envision creating self-sustaining communities on other planets, moons, or within space stations.

Supporters claim the ultimate goal is to expand humanity's presence in space, ensuring long-term survival and reducing dependence on Earth.