Phivolcs reported a 6.4-magnitude quake at 23 km depth, urging nearby residents to watch for aftershocks
Manila
A strong earthquake measuring 6.7 in magnitude struck off the southern Philippines on Wednesday, according to the United States Geological Survey, but authorities said there were no immediate reports of deaths or major damage.
The quake occurred about 68 kilometres east of Baculin, a village in the town of Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur province. The USGS said the earthquake struck at a shallow depth of around 10 kilometres, which often increases the chance of strong shaking near the surface.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, known as Phivolcs, recorded the quake at a slightly lower magnitude of 6.4 and said it occurred at a depth of 23 kilometres. The agency warned residents in nearby areas to stay alert for possible aftershocks and minor damage.
Local police and disaster response officials said people felt the tremor clearly, but early checks did not show any injuries or structural damage. Joey Monato, the police chief of Hinatuan, said the shaking was noticeable but brief. He added that many residents rushed outside their homes as a precaution.
Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said the epicentre was close to the area where two strong earthquakes struck in October last year, killing seven people. Despite this, he said the latest quake was unlikely to trigger a tsunami.
“It will not generate destructive tsunami waves,” Bacolcol said, explaining that the depth and location reduced that risk.
The Philippines lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity, making seismic events a common part of life for many communities.
