Philippines: 7.1 magnitude earthquake in the northern part of the archipelago

A very strong 7.1-magnitude earthquake hit the northern Philippines today, the United States Seismological Institute (USGS) announced, which initially estimated the magnitude of the earthquake at 6.8.

So far, no casualties or damage have been reported by authorities.

Residents of Manila reported that buildings were shaken. The earthquake, at a depth of 10 kilometers according to the USGS, occurred in the Ambra province of the Philippines’ main island, Luzon, at 08:43 (local time; 03:43 Greece time), according to the country’s seismological service, which warned that potentially serious property damage must be expected.

The USGS estimated the epicenter was 11 kilometers east-southeast of Dolores.

No tsunami warning was issued by the US agency.

The Metro system in Manila has stopped operating, according to the Department of Transportation.

Eric Singson, a member of parliament, said the quake was extremely felt in the capital, saying it lasted “30 seconds or more” and adding “I thought my house was going to collapse”.

The Senate building was evacuated, according to Philippine media citing a member of the body.

Marcos orders search and rescue

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the immediate dispatch of search and rescue teams and aid to Ambra province, his spokeswoman said.

Mr. Marcos will be flown to the affected area later in the day, Philippine presidential spokeswoman Trixie Cruz-Angeles assured during a press conference.

Abra province was hit by a very strong 7.1-magnitude earthquake, the United States Seismological Institute (USGS) announced earlier.

The earthquake was particularly felt as far away as Manila, over 300 kilometers away.

The local authorities are talking about material damage, however no – so far at least – of victims.