Asia-Pacific

5.3 magnitude quake rocks northern Philippines

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-02-22 10:47

MANILA - A 5.3-magnitude earthquake rocked northern Philippines Thursday morning, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) said.

The quake, whose epicenter was 66 kilometers southwest from Manila, occurred at 10:10 am, the USGS said, adding the depth of the tremor was 137 kilometers.

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There was no immediate reports of casualties from Philippine authorities.

The tremor was also felt in the capital city.

Shiela Briol, a Manila resident, said that when the tremor occurred, she was at the 19th floor of a highrise building in the city. "The whole office is swaying," she said, surprised.

The Philippines sits in the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, an area where continental plates collide producing frequent quakes and volcanic activities.