Eastern Samar suspends work, classes after magnitude 6.1 earthquake

TACLOBAN CITY — Eastern Samar Gov. Ralph Vincent Evardone on Monday ordered the suspension of work in all government offices and classes at all levels across the province following the magnitude 6.1 earthquake that struck off San Julian.

READ: Magnitude 6.1 earthquake jolts Eastern Samar town

The directive was issued to ensure the safety of government employees, students, and residents, and to give authorities time to assess the damage caused by the strong tremor.

Residents were also advised to remain alert for possible aftershocks and to follow safety advisories from local disaster risk reduction and management offices.

The suspension of classes and government work is a standard precautionary measure during emergencies in the province, as local officials prioritize public safety and rapid assessment of affected areas.

In Tacloban City, residents rushed out of their homes, offices, and business establishments following the tremor.

“It was strong,” said Aileen Sales, who was inside a restaurant when the quake struck.

Isabel Morante, who was tending a sari-sari store, said some of their items fell off shelves due to the shaking.

Instrumental intensity V, categorized as strong shaking, was recorded in Can-avid, Eastern Samar; Dulag and Alangalang, Leyte; and Gandara, Samar. Intensity IV, or moderately strong shaking, was felt in Abuyog, Palo, and Carigara, Leyte. /coa