4.9 quakes hit Biliran, Dinagat Island

CEBU, Philippines - A 4.9-magnitude earthquake rocked the province of Biliran last night, but no damage nor injury was reported as of press time.

The quake was also felt at Intensity 1 in Cebu City.

The temblor hit at 7:09 in the evening. It’s epicenter was found eight kilometers North 65 degrees West of Biliran or at coordinates 11.50°N, 124.40°E, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

The depth of focus is nine kilometers. The quake was caused by a tectonic movement.

PHIVOLCS Seismic Observer Robinson Jorgio said that they have not received reports of damage or injuries from the affected Local Government Units in Biliran and other surrounding areas.

They are also yet to determine the intensity of the tremor, which will depend on the description that will be submitted to them.

Based on initial data though, the 4.9-magnitude quake was felt at intensity IV to V around the epicenter. Jorgio said the intensities V and below usually cause no damage.

Earlier yesterday, a 4.9-magnitude quake also hit Dinagat Province at 5:59 a.m.

The quake was centered at 8 kilometers North 6° East of Dinagat with a depth of focus of 198 kilometers. Jorgio said that the origin of the quake was deep that it was almost negligible on the surface. –(FREEMAN)