Manila, Philippines – A 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coast of the Philippines on Wednesday, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The tremor, which occurred near Mindanao, had a depth of 30 kilometers (18.6 miles), but no significant damage or casualties have been reported.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology identified the earthquake’s epicenter as being about 43 kilometers southwest of Maitum, a mountainous and sparsely populated area in the region. Local officials reported that initial checks revealed no significant impact from the quake.
Gilbert Rolifor, a fire department official in Maitum, stated, “It was strong but didn’t last long. We have checked, but it was negative (for damage or casualties).”
Philippines: Earthquake in the Ring of Fire
The Philippines is located along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent seismic and volcanic activity. Earthquakes are common in this region, though most are too weak to be felt by people. Strong and destructive earthquakes, however, can occur at any time, with no technology currently available to predict their occurrence.
While the recent tremor didn’t cause harm, the region remains alert as the country continues to face the ongoing threat of earthquakes and other natural disasters due to its position along the Ring of Fire.
