MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday confirmed that the Philippine Navy (PN) has taken custody of the submersible drone recovered by local fisherfolk off the waters of Masbate province.
Reports showed that 30-year-old fisherman Rodnie Valenzuela and his companions were fishing in the waters of Barangay Iniwaran in San Pascual town at around 6 a.m. on December 30, when they recovered the submersible drone.
The fisherfolk immediately turned over the submersible drone to the local police.
“The AFP confirms the turnover of a remotely operated submersible drone from the PNP (Philippine National Police) to the PN. The drone was recovered in the vicinity of San Pascual, Masbate by local fisher-folks. The Navy is currently conducting further investigation to determine its origin and purpose,” AFP public affairs office chief, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, said in a message to reporters.
He added that this incident underscores the importance of collaboration with local fisherfolk and maritime stakeholders.
“We commend their vigilance and continued support in reporting suspicious activities and encourage ongoing cooperation to ensure the effective monitoring of our territorial waters,” Trinidad said.
He added that the AFP is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the country’s maritime domain and will deploy all necessary resources to address similar and other situations with the utmost diligence. (PNA)