Magnitude 5 tremor causes no damage in Batangas town

By Thiago Santos Infographic from Philvocs showing the earthquake epicenter and affected areas. (Photo from OCD/FACEBOOK) CALACA, Bat...

By Thiago Santos

Infographic from Philvocs showing the earthquake epicenter and affected areas. (Photo from OCD/FACEBOOK)

CALACA, Batangas - There are no early reports of casualties or damage on October 13, 2023, at approximately 08:24 a.m., when a magnitude-5.2 earthquake strikes Batangas Province.

Calaca Mayor Nas Ona said the city disaster management council immediately conducted a disaster risk assessment following the quake and reported no damage to public buildings, private factories, or warehouses in the town's 40 barangays.



He stated that the CDRRMO and Engineering Office are focused on determining the extent of damage caused by the earthquake and that the command center is set up at the city hall to closely monitor the upcoming developments and to ensure that their personnel are prepared to provide assistance if needed.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the tremor struck five kilometers southwest of Calaca City, and aftershocks are expected in the coming days.

The earthquake was also felt in nearby provinces such as Laguna and Rizal, prompting local authorities to conduct rapid assessments and ensure the safety of residents in those areas as well. The public is advised to stay vigilant and follow safety protocols in case of further seismic activity.

According to the Office of Civil Defense IV-A, there were no major effects or damage reported in the region as a result of the temblor. The earthquake was measured at a magnitude of 5.2 on the Richter scale.

OCD said that Mayon Volcano remains at Alert Level 3, while Taal Volcano is at Alert Level 1, based on PHIVOLCS' 24-hour observation, monitoring, and reminding residents living near these volcanoes to remain cautious and be prepared for any sudden changes in volcanic activity that may occur.

The authorities are closely monitoring both volcanoes for any signs of increased volcanic activity that could pose a threat to nearby communities and have implemented evacuation plans in case of an eruption.