Quake rattles Central Visayas

CEBU, Philippines - Even after two years, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology continues to record aftershocks related to the magnitude 7.2 earthquake that hit Bohol and Cebu.

PHIVOLCS science research specialist Rolando Montanez said the aftershock, which was recorded last Sunday at 8:33 p.m., had a magnitude of 4.0.

Montanez said the quake’s epicenter was located 26 kilometers northwest of Tagbilaran City and that it was an aftershock of the powerful earthquake in 2013.

“Connected ni siya sa 7.2 nga magnitude, same ilang fault lane,” he said, referring to the October 15, 2013 earthquake that killed and injured hundreds, and destroyed several business establishments, buildings and churches in Bohol and Cebu.

Montanez said Sunday’s quake, which was triggered by a tectonic activity, occurred eight kilometers below the surface.

He also noted the different intensities recorded from other areas in the region: Tagbilaran City, Loon and Maribojoc, Bohol, intensity four; Dauis, Bohol, intensity three; Tayasan and Sibulan, Negros Oriental, and Argao, Cebu, intensity two; and Cebu City, intensity one.

Intensity four, Montanez said, is strong enough to frighten people.

He, however, added that they were not able to receive any reports of injuries and damages from the affected areas.  (FREEMAN)