Magnitude 5.3 quake rocks Surigao del Sur

Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) shows the epicenter of a magnitude 5.3 earthquake that shook the waters off of Surigao del Sur on Wednesday. (Image from DOST/Phivolcs)

MANILA, Philippines — An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.3 hit the waters off Surigao del Sur at 9:11 a.m. on Wednesday, according to Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

The quake’s epicenter was located 32 kilometers (km) east of Hinatuan in Surigao del Sur.

The tremor had a depth of focus of 10 km and was tectonic in origin.

State seismologists said they are not expecting damage nor aftershocks from the temblor.

According to Phivolcs, the quake was felt at Intensity V (strong) in the city of Bislig in Surigao del Sur.

Meanwhile, the following instrumental intensities were recorded:

Intensity III (weak) – city of Bislig, Surigao Del Sur

Intensity II (slightly felt) – Nabunturan, Davao De Oro

Phivolcs earlier explained felt intensity reflects the actual ground shaking experienced, while the instrumental intensity is determined by measurements from equipment located in and around the epicentral area.

In early December last year, Hinatuan was also rattled by a magnitude 7.4 earthquake.

Philippines sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where tectonic plates collide, causing frequent earthquakes and volcanic activities.