6.3-magnitude earthquake strikes off southern Philippines

SARANGANI, Philippines — A magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck off the southern Philippines on Wednesday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

The earthquake occurred at 12:14 p.m. local time (0414 GMT), approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) southwest of Sarangani Island, at a depth of 62 kilometers. No tsunami warning was issued, and there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

Rescuer Harly Sauro said the shaking was strong enough to cause panic among residents who had gathered to receive a government financial subsidy.

“The shaking was quite strong. I saw people in panic. They were running and shouting,” Sauro told AFP, adding that everyone at the gathering was safe.

The Philippines lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making earthquakes a frequent occurrence. The latest tremor comes nearly two months after a powerful earthquake on Mindanao that killed at least 76 people and caused widespread destruction.