6.7-magnitude earthquake strikes the Philippines

Guwahati: In a recent development, a shallow earthquake struck the Central Philippines on early Tuesday, as per the US Geological survey.

Although there were no reports of Tsunami warning issued or immediate reports of damage, the quake struck 68 kilometers southeast of Masbate Island in the Bicol region at 8:03 am (0003 GMT).

US Geological Survey said "there is a low likelihood of casualties and damage," 

"Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides and liquefaction that might have contributed to losses," they added.

In the city of Iloilo in the neighboring western Visayas, about 400 kilometers (250 miles) southwest of Masbate, residents fled their houses.

"It was strong, dizzying," police Colonel Eric Dampal informed.

As per reports, houses in poor rural areas of the Philippines are often made from a lightweight material such as wood.

The quake struck as the archipelago amid the surging number of coronavirus cases, with restrictions on movement that vary across the country.

"Almost everyone inside buildings rushed to the streets. Up to now, they're still outside."

It is to be mentioned that residents in the eastern Visayas, also hundreds of kilometers from Masbate, said that the quake was "strong but very short".

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