West Valley Fault

Residents of Northern Luzon were jolted by a magnitude 5.4 earthquake, striking around 12:05 p.m. on Wednesday, according to state seismologists.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that the epicenter of the quake was approximately 16 kilometers northwest of Pagudpud in Ilocos Norte. It was of tectonic origin, with a depth of 10 kilometers. Intensity 6 was felt in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte, while Intensity 4 was reported in Sinait, Ilocos Sur.

Authorities have issued precautionary advisories for residents in affected areas, emphasizing the potential for aftershocks. Fortunately, no significant damage has been reported as of now.

Schools in Ilocos Norte took swift action, suspending classes as a safety measure and to allow authorities to assess infrastructure. Thelma Ruiz-Sacsac, a teacher at Luzon National High School, emphasized the importance of immediate response to ensure student safety.

The Department of Education (DepEd) in Ilocos Norte, through Superintendent Donato Balderas Jr., highlighted that local chief executives have the authority to decide on class cancellations or suspensions based on Phivolcs’ intensity reports. Additionally, school principals have the discretion to cancel classes if they perceive structural risks.

Areas experiencing intensity IV and below, as per Phivolcs’ earthquake information No. 2, include Magsingal in Ilocos Sur; Peñablanca, Claveria, and Gonzaga in Cagayan; Sinait and Vigan City in Ilocos Sur; City of Ilagan in Isabela; and Solsona in Ilocos Norte.

Concerns about structural integrity have prompted action from local engineering offices. The Bacarra Engineering Office restricted access within the 10-meter radius of the old Bacarra bell tower due to visible cracks observed after the quake.

In response to the earthquake, the provincial government of Ilocos Norte emphasized the importance of relying on official channels for information and urged the public to refrain from spreading false rumors.

During the tremor, a student at the Data Center College of Laoag suffered a sprain while evacuating the Provincial Capitol building. She received prompt medical attention at the Governor Roque B. Abad Sr. Memorial Hospital.

As residents remain vigilant in the aftermath of the earthquake, cooperation among authorities and the public is crucial to ensuring safety and minimizing risks in affected areas. Stay tuned for updates and adhere to official guidelines for your safety and well-being.

Source: PNA.gov.ph