A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck off the southern coast of the Philippines around midday local time. The epicenter was about 32 kilometers southwest of Sarangani Island.
The USGS reported that the earthquake occurred at 12:14 p.m. local time with a depth of approximately 62 kilometers. No tsunami warning has been issued, and there are no reports of deaths, injuries, or damage to buildings and structures.
Harley Sauro, a rescue official on Sarangani Island, told AFP that many people were gathered at the community hall to receive government aid when the earthquake struck. This caused panic and people fled the area in alarm, but everyone is safe. Based on experience and preliminary assessments, no fatalities or severe damage are expected.
This earthquake occurred just months after a major quake on 8 June on Mindanao Island, which caused several buildings to collapse, landslides, and at least 76 deaths. That quake also lifted the sea floor by as much as two meters, impacting coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
The Philippines is located on the "Ring of Fire," a region prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, resulting in the country experiencing almost daily seismic activity.
/source:channelnewsasia
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