By Jim Lloyd Dongiapon
A strong earthquake hit some areas in Mindanao at about 4:05 PM on Wednesday, October 19.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) released a bulletin at 4:15 PM, and it has recorded the strength of the tremor as magnitude 5.5.
The epicenter of the earthquake was six kilometers south, 29 degrees west of Matanao, Davao del Sur. Its depth of focus was one kilometer and was tectonic in origin.
The cities of Davao and General Santos have reported that the quake was at intensity IV, or “Moderately Strong.”
For instrumental intensities, Kidapawan City in North Cotabato, Koronadal City, and the town of Norala in South Cotabato have all recorded Intensity V, or a “strong earthquake”.
Intensity IV (Moderately Strong) was recorded in Jose Abad Santos in Davao Occidental; Alabel in Sarangani; Tampakan, Tantangan, Tupi, and General Santos City in South Cotabato; and Columbio in Sultan Kudarat.
Intensity III (Weak) was felt in Libona, Bukidnon; Don Marcelino, Davao Occidental; Maasim, Kiamba, and Malapatan in Sarangani; and Santo Niño, Polomolok, Suralla, and T’Boli in South Cotabato.
Intensity II (Slightly Felt) was registered in Alamada, North Cotabato; Nabunturan, Davao de Oro; Maitum, Sarangani; and Lake Sebu, South Cotabato.
Lastly, Intensity I (Scarcely Perceptible) was observed in Malaybalay, Bukidnon, and Cagayan de Oro City in Misamis Oriental.
PHIVOLCS also reported that structural damage and aftershocks are expected following the quake.