Magnitude 5 earthquake shakes Davao Occidental

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported a 5.0-magnitude earthquake offshore of Davao Occidental on Monday evening, January 13.

The earthquake, which hit at 7:41 p.m., had its epicenter 42 kilometers northwest of Balut Island in Sarangani, Davao Occidental.

It was felt at an intensity of IV (moderately intense) at Kiamba, Sarangani.

Meanwhile, it was identified as Intensity III (weak) in General Santos City, Maasim, Maitum in Sarangani, and Tupi in South Cotabato.

The tremor was “slightly felt” (intensity II) in Don Marcelino, Davao Occidental, and “scarcely perceptible” (intensity I) in Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, and Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental.

According to Phivolcs, the earthquake was tectonic, meaning it was triggered by an active fault in the area.

The public is cautioned to remain careful because aftershocks may occur.