Magnitude 5.1 quake hits Caraga

MANILA, Philippines -  A magnitude-5.1 earthquake jolted parts of Caraga region yesterday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said even as it warned the public of possible aftershocks.

The tremor occurred at 9:19 a.m. with its epicenter traced at 24 kilometers northeast of Tandag, Surigao del Sur.

It was felt at Intensity 4 (moderately strong) in Talacogon, Agusan del Sur; Intensity 3 (weak) in Surigao City and Socorro, Surigao del Norte and Intensity 2 (slightly felt) in Butuan City.

Phivolcs said there was no damage expected after the tremor, but it advised residents to be prepared for possible aftershocks.

Strong earthquakes have hit different parts of the country in the past weeks, causing damage to properties.

Phivolcs, however, said there is nothing unusual with the frequent temblors in the Philippines due to its geographical location.

The agency advised the public to remain vigilant as some faults in the country, including the 100-km West Valley Fault, could generate large earthquakes.

Phivolcs had been warning on possible magnitude-7.2 quake that could be generated by the West Valley Fault, which runs from Marikina to Laguna.

Based on a 2004 study of the Japan International Cooperation Agency, an earthquake of such magnitude could kill up to 34,000 people and injure 100,000 others.