Senate to Launch Probe on Submarine Drone Found in Masbate
The Senate is pushing for an investigation into the discovery of a submarine drone recovered by fishermen off the coast of Masbate.
A submarine drone, also called an underwater drone or autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), is a device designed to work underwater. These drones can be controlled remotely or programmed to operate on their own. They come with features like sensors, cameras, and tools to perform various tasks under the sea.
Submarine drones are typically compact and streamlined, allowing them to move easily underwater. They are equipped to collect data, take photos, or send real-time information, making them useful in many fields.
Recently, a drone was found floating near Barangay Inawaran in San Pascual, Masbate, sparking concerns about its purpose and origin. Lawmakers aim to reveal details about how the device ended up in Philippine waters and whether it posed any threats or violated regulations.
Initial investigations suggest that the device is a remote-controlled electronic gadget, possibly used for navigation or communication. These findings have prompted calls for transparency and a deeper examination of the drone’s role and implications for national security.
Senators have expressed confidence in Filipino engineers, suggesting that the device could be reverse-engineered to extract valuable information if necessary. Understanding the drone’s technology could provide insights into its operational use and whether it was intended for surveillance or research purposes.
The incident has also emphasized the importance of upholding the country’s maritime laws, including the Philippine Maritime Zones Act (RA 12064) and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Law (RA 12065).
Both laws aim to safeguard the nation’s waters and ensure proper management of maritime zones.
With the resolution set to be filed in the Senate, the investigation will focus not only on addressing security concerns but also on reinforcing the Philippines’ maritime sovereignty.
The move shows the country’s commitment to protecting its waters from potential external threats while advancing local expertise in maritime technology.
The social media users expressed their reactions to the incident:
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