MANILA, Philippines – A magnitude 5 earthquake struck Davao Occidental province in the southern Philippines on Thursday night, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported.
The tectonic quake hit 355 kilometers southeast of Sarangani Island at 9:46 p.m., occurring at a depth of 10 kilometers.
As of writing, Phivolcs has not yet recorded any reported or instrumental intensities from the earthquake. Reported intensity refers to traditional accounts from people who felt the shaking, while instrumental intensity is measured by equipment tracking ground acceleration.
Phivolcs stated that neither aftershocks nor damage are expected from the magnitude 5 quake. The agency noted that earthquakes typically need to reach Intensity VI on their scale before causing any damage.
The southern Philippines, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is prone to frequent seismic activity. Phivolcs continuously monitors and reports on earthquakes across the archipelago nation.
While magnitude 5 quakes are considered moderate in strength, residents in the Davao Occidental area likely felt noticeable shaking from Thursday’s tremor. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or destruction thus far.
Phivolcs advised the public to remain vigilant and prepared for any potential aftershocks or future seismic events in the region. The agency continues to gather data and assess the full impact of the latest earthquake.
