Magnitude 6.0 quake jolts Eastern Samar

MANILA, Philippines — A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Eastern Samar yesterday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported.

According to Phivolcs, the tectonic quake occurred at 2:09 p.m. with a depth of 56 kilometers. The epicenter was traced at 20 km northeast of San Julian town.

Gov. Ralph Vincent Evardone suspended work and classes in all levels following the temblor.

“Residents are advised to remain alert for aftershocks and follow safety advisories issued by local disaster response agencies,” Evardone said in an executive order.

Provincial disaster officer Thomas Campomanes said superficial cracks were observed in some buildings, adding that no major damage was recorded by the local government.

Intensity 5 was felt in Tacloban City, while Intensity 3 was recorded in Casiguran and Juban towns in Sorsogon.

Tandag City in Surigao del Sur felt an Intensity 2.

Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) reported that the airports in Calbayog, Borongan, Catbalogan, Hilongos, Catarman, Guiuan and Ormoc did not sustain any damage.

“The CAAP assures the public that all necessary measures have been undertaken to ensure the safety of our airports and personnel,” CAAP chief Raul del Rosario said.