5.7-magnitude quake hits Babuyan islands

MANILA, Philippines – A moderate earthquake roused people from sleep but caused no injuries or damage in the northern Philippines early Sunday, officials said.

The U.S. Geological Survey reported that the magnitude-5.7 earthquake hit the Babuyan Islands region off the country’s mountainous north. Philippine officials placed its magnitude at 5.5.

The quake’s center, at a depth of 13.9 miles (22.4 kilometers), was about 317 miles (511 kilometers) north of Manila, USGS said.

Benito Ramos, who heads the government’s Office of Civil Defense, said the quake woke some people up but did not cause any injuries or damage in at least three provinces where it was felt.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center did not issue any warnings or advisories.

The Philippines is located on the so-called Pacific “Ring of Fire” where earthquakes and volcanic activity are common.