BURGOS, Ilocos Norte — A magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck off the coast of Burgos, Ilocos Norte at 10:56 a.m. on December 30, 2024, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). The earthquake, which originated tectonically, had an epicenter located approximately 48 kilometers northwest of Burgos, at a depth of 15 kilometers. Initial reports mistakenly identified Bangui as the epicenter.

The earthquake prompted strong ground shaking (Intensity V) in parts of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur, particularly in Sinait and Cabugao in Ilocos Sur, and Sarrat in Ilocos Norte. Other areas like Claveria, Cagayan, and Tubo, Abra experienced moderately strong shaking (Intensity IV), while weaker tremors were felt in Lacub, Abra, and as far as Aparri and Lasam in Cagayan.

Instrumental intensities revealed the following: Intensity V was recorded in San Nicholas, Ilocos Norte, while Vigan City in Ilocos Sur experienced Intensity IV, and Gonzaga in Cagayan reported Intensity III. Other areas such as Penablanca, Cagayan, and Bontoc, Mountain Province, felt only slight tremors (Intensity II), with Intensity I recorded in Candon and Narvacan, Ilocos Sur.

The seismic event followed a series of earlier quakes on Sunday morning, including two consecutive tremors, a magnitude 3.7 and 3.8, both of which hit the region. Phivolcs has issued a warning about possible aftershocks and potential structural damage in the affected areas.

No significant damage was reported by Monday noon, though safety protocols, including temporary evacuations of buildings such as Robinsons Mall in San Nicolas, were implemented for inspections. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as aftershocks remain a concern.

Residents are advised to stay alert as further developments unfold.

📷 Philvolcs-DOST