Magnitude 6.0 Earthquake Jolts Near Bogo City, Cebu

Residents across central Philippines were jolted awake early Monday as a magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck near Bogo City in Cebu. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) recorded the tremor at 1:06 a.m., with its effects rippling through several provinces.

The strongest shaking, measured at Intensity V, was felt in Villaba, Leyte, where residents described the experience as "strong and alarming." This level typically causes moderate to heavy damage in poorly constructed buildings and minor damage to well-designed structures.

Intensity IV shaking was reported in numerous areas including Danao City, Ormoc City, and parts of Bohol, where people reported swaying buildings and rattling windows. The seismic event was also perceptible as far as Southern Leyte and Northern Mindanao.

"We heard a loud rumbling sound first, then the whole house started shaking," recounted Maria Santos, a resident of Villaba. "Everyone immediately went outside – it was a very scary experience."

PHIVOLCS officials confirmed the earthquake's epicenter was located 19 kilometers northeast of Bogo City at a depth of 10 kilometers. The agency assured the public that while the quake was significant, there were no immediate reports of major structural damage or injuries.

"Our monitoring stations show this was a tectonic event," said PHIVOLCS Director Renato Solidum. "We're continuing to monitor aftershocks and advise residents to remain vigilant, especially when inside structures."

Local authorities conducted rapid assessments of public buildings and infrastructure. Classes in some affected areas were temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure.

The Philippines sits along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it one of the most earthquake-prone countries in the world. PHIVOLCS maintains an extensive seismic monitoring network that provides real-time data to emergency response agencies.

For real-time updates and safety guidelines, residents are encouraged to follow PHIVOLCS' official channels and local disaster risk reduction offices.