A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck Ilocos Norte early Wednesday morning, Dec. 4, said the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
The tremor occurred at 5:58 a.m. and its epicenter was located 4 kilometers southwest of Bangui, Ilocos Norte.
The earthquake was registered at Intensity V (strong) in Laoag City, Pagudpud, Dumalneg, Burgos, Pasuquin, Bacarra, Adams, Sarrat, and San Nicolas in Ilocos Norte.
It was reported at Intensity IV (moderately strong) in Batac City, Currimao, and Pinili in Ilocos Norte; Sinait, Vigan City, San Vicente, Santa Catalina, Bantay, Santa Lucia, Santa, Narvacan, San Esteban, Cabugao, San Juan, Caoayan, Magsingal, San Ildefonso, Santa Cruz, Santo Domingo, Santiago, Candon City, and Santa Maria in Ilocos Sur; Lacub, Tayum, San Juan, La Paz, San Isidro, Pidigan, Bangued, Tubo, and Bucay in Abra; Baguio City, Atok, and Buguias in Benguet; and Besao and Bontoc in Mountain Province.
It was also registered at Intensity III (weak) in La Trinidad, Benguet.
Phivolcs said the earthquake was tectonic in origin and was caused by the movement of an active fault near the area.
It also warned of potential damage and aftershocks following this earthquake.