Manila, Philippines, June 8: A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale struck the Philippines early Monday morning, according to the National Centre for Seismology (NCS).
The earthquake occurred at 5:07 am IST at a depth of 93 kilometres, with its epicentre located at 5.635°N latitude and 125.147°E longitude, the NCS said in a post on X.
Just minutes later, a strong 6.4-magnitude aftershock was recorded at 5:18 am IST. The tremor occurred at a depth of 79 kilometres, with its epicentre located at 5.605°N latitude and 125.408°E longitude.
According to the NCS, both earthquakes were centred in the Philippines region and originated at significant depths beneath the Earth’s surface.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) classifies earthquakes based on their depth into three categories: shallow-focus earthquakes (0–70 km), intermediate-focus earthquakes (70–300 km), and deep-focus earthquakes (300–700 km). Earthquakes occurring at depths greater than 70 kilometres are generally considered deep-focus events.
There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage following the earthquakes. Authorities are monitoring the situation, while assessments are underway in the affected areas.
Further details are awaited.