May 4, 2023 - A 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck the province of Isabela on Tuesday morning, causing mild to moderate shaking in the area. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that the epicenter of the earthquake was located 14 kilometers northeast of Palanan town, Isabela, and it occurred at 9:06 am. According to Phivolcs, the earthquake was tectonic in origin and had a depth of 6 kilometers. Although there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage to structures, the earthquake was felt at Intensity IV in Palanan and Intensity III in neighboring towns of Divilacan and Maconacon.
Reports suggest that the earthquake caused the ground to shake and sway, which led to some panic and evacuation of homes. Some schools and businesses in the affected areas were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure. The earthquake followed a series of earthquakes that struck the island of Luzon a few days ago, with a 6.1-magnitude earthquake hitting Zambales province on Saturday, raising concerns about the possibility of a major earthquake hitting the region.
Phivolcs advised residents in the affected areas to remain calm and vigilant, to prepare for earthquakes, and to be aware of the proper response during an earthquake. The Philippines is situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent seismic activity caused by tectonic plates colliding. The country experiences around 20 earthquakes daily, but most are too weak to be felt. However, earthquakes with magnitudes above 5.0 are not uncommon in the country.
Sources
ABS-CBN News. (2023, May 4). Phivolcs records 5.8 magnitude quake in Isabela. Retrieved from https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/05/04/23/phivolcs-records-58-magnitude-quake-in-isabela
Rappler. (2023, May 4). Magnitude 5.8 earthquake hits Isabela. Retrieved from https://www.rappler.com/nation/earthquake-5-8-magnitude-hits-isabela-may-4-2023/
Inquirer.net. (2023, May 4). 5.8-magnitude quake hits Isabela province. Retrieved from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1609033/5-8-magnitude-quake-hits-isabela-province