5 underwater drones recovered in various parts of PH last year

5 underwater drones recovered in parts of PH last year – Navy

By: - Reporter / @FArgosinoINQ
/ 02:50 PM January 14, 2025

Photo shows the submersible drone recovered by fishermen in the waters of San Pascual, Masbate on New Year’s Day. The drone was turned over to the Philippine Navy unit in southern Luzon. (Photo courtesy of Bicol police)

MANILA, Philippines — Five underwater drones were recovered in various parts of the country last year, according to Philippine Navy spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Adm. Roy Vincent Trinidad. 

Among the five drones, Trinidad said the latest was found on December 30 in the waters of San Pascual, Masbate.

Article continues after this advertisement

The Armed Forces of the Philippines reported last January 2 that this drone bore Chinese markings and was subjected to further investigation.

FEATURED STORIES

“The five that were given to us for forensics. Two were found in Calayan Island; one in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte; the most recent one in Masbate; and another one in the waters of Initao, Misamis Oriental,” Trinidad revealed in a press conference on Tuesday. 

He, however, did not disclose the dates authorities recovered the four other drones, but said they were also surrendered to the police by local fishermen. 

Article continues after this advertisement

Trinidad explained that the devices were “difficult to detect” when underwater but become visible on the surface, adding that these are small in size, only about “2.5 to 3.5 meters in length.” 

Article continues after this advertisement

Based on police reports, the underwater drone found in Masbate was discovered by a 30-year-old fisherman identified as Rodnie Valenzuela, along with two unnamed individuals.

Article continues after this advertisement

Valenzuela was accompanied by barangay officials when he turned over the drone to the San Pascual police. 

Following this report, the Armed Forces of the Philippines committed to ensuring the safety and security of the country’s maritime domain.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

TAGS: Drone, Navy

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2025 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.