Philippines hit by 5.9 magnitude earthquake

Last Updated on January 24, 2025 6:53 am

A 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck the central Philippines on Thursday morning, local time, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said in a bulletin. The quake struck at a depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles) near San Francisco city in Leyte province.

The agency also warned of damage and aftershocks.

San Francisco Police Chief Bernie Kattig said the quake was short but strong.

“It was strong. We had some picture frames falling off our shelves,” he told Reuters by phone. “There were no immediate reports of damage,” Kattig said.

Earthquakes are common in the Philippines. The country is located on the Pacific Ocean’s “Ring of Fire,” which is prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.