A MAGNITUDE 5.1 earthquake struck 2:57 am yesterday, some four kilometers north of Wao town in Lanao del Sur. It had a depth of nine kilometers.
It badly affected Bukidnon.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said it was an aftershock, resulting from the magnitude 6 earthquake in Lanao del Sur in April 12.
Phivolcs said aftershocks stronger than magnitude 5.1 can still occur the April earthquake.
“The earthquake in April can still generate aftershocks stronger than” yesterday’s, said Phivolcs science research assistant Mary Ann Montion.
She said communities concerned must prepare accordingly since there are several earthquake generators in Lanao del Sur.
“People need not panic when earthquakes and aftershocks strike but must either duck, cover and hold or calmly exit buildings,” she said.
Montion also advised the public to either remain in open areas during earthquakes or head to these places after exiting buildings.
Montion said yesterday’s aftershock was the April earthquake’s second strongest so far after the magnitude 5.4 aftershock in Sept. 24.
Friday’s aftershock was at intensities “5” in Kadingilan, Bukidnon; “4” in Pangantukan, Bukidnon; and “3” in Maramag, Bukidnon, said Phivolcs.
The aftershock was reported at “instrumental intensity II” in Cagayan de Oro City.
Some parts of Bukidnon lost their power supply as a result of the aftershock.
Philvolcs regional director Marcial Labininay said it was possible that the faultlines in Wao, Lanao del Sur moved. (pna)
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