Navy Takes Custody of Submersible Drone Found by Fishermen in Masbate

The Philippine Navy has officially taken possession of a submersible drone that was discovered by local fishermen in the waters near San Pascual, Masbate. The incident occurred on December 30, 2024, when 30-year-old fisherman Rodnie Valenzuela and his fellow fishermen were out fishing at around 6 a.m. in Barangay Iniwaran. They stumbled upon the drone and promptly handed it over to the local police, who then transferred it to the Navy. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed the transfer and stated that the Navy is now investigating the drone’s origins and intended use. Colonel Xerxes Trinidad, the chief of the AFP’s public affairs office, emphasized the significance of cooperation with local fishermen and maritime stakeholders in maintaining security. He praised the fishermen for their alertness and encouraged continued collaboration to monitor the country’s territorial waters effectively. Trinidad also reaffirmed the AFP’s dedication to safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, promising to utilize all available resources to handle such incidents diligently.