Magnitude 5.1 earthquake shakes Surigao del Norte waters

On Friday morning, residents of the Philippines woke up to sudden ground shaking after a magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck the waters off Surigao del Norte. The quake, which scientists confirmed to be tectonic in origin, occurred at 8:44 a.m. local time and was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers beneath the earth’s surface.

The epicenter of the earthquake was pinpointed to be around 10 kilometers northeast of Burgos, Surigao del Norte. While this offshore location meant that the strongest force of the tremor was not directly under populated land, nearby areas still felt noticeable shaking.

Where the Quake Was Felt

The tremors extended into parts of the Visayas region, with varying levels of intensity recorded:

Intensity III (Weak Shaking) – Hinunangan, Southern Leyte

Residents in this town reported weak shaking indoors, especially in upper floors of buildings. Many described the vibration as similar to a light truck passing by. Some people even felt mild dizziness or nausea. Hanging objects and water in containers were observed swinging and oscillating moderately.

* Intensity II (Slight Shaking) – Silago and Hinundayan, Southern Leyte

In these areas, the earthquake was only slightly felt. Only a few individuals resting indoors reported the tremor. Hanging items swayed lightly, and water in containers rippled gently.

No Major Damage but Aftershocks Possible

Experts do not expect serious damage from this earthquake, given its depth and distance from heavily populated areas. However, authorities warned that aftershocks could still occur in the coming hours or days. Residents were advised to remain alert but not to panic.

Local communities are already accustomed to such seismic events, as the Philippines lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. Despite this, every tremor is taken seriously as it reminds people of the region’s vulnerability to natural hazards.

Understanding the Quake’s Impact

A magnitude 5.1 earthquake is considered moderate. While it usually does not cause widespread destruction, it can be felt across several provinces and may trigger structural concerns in poorly built houses or older buildings. The fact that this quake originated under the sea also highlights the importance of monitoring for potential secondary effects, such as landslides in coastal or hilly areas, though no tsunami threat was reported.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Community Response

In towns where the quake was felt, people momentarily left homes and schools to gather in open spaces. Some described the tremor as short but unsettling. Parents were quick to check on children, and schools conducted brief safety drills.

Authorities emphasized the need for preparedness—keeping emergency kits ready, knowing evacuation routes, and practicing safety protocols like “duck, cover, and hold” during earthquakes.

Why the Philippines Faces Frequent Quakes

The Philippines sits on the Ring of Fire, where several tectonic plates meet. The collision and movement of these plates often trigger earthquakes. Surigao del Norte and Southern Leyte, located in the eastern part of the country, are particularly prone because they lie near major fault lines and trenches under the sea.

While Friday’s quake brought no reports of injuries or major damage, it serves as a reminder of nature’s unpredictability. The region remains on watch for possible aftershocks, and residents are urged to stay cautious. For now, life continues as normal, but the memory of the morning tremor will remain fresh in the minds of many across Southern Leyte and Surigao del Norte.