By: The Negros Times
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), many earthquakes have been recorded for the past few days that jolted the southern areas of Negros Island. The region lies at the center of the Philippine archipelago between the major islands of Luzon and Mindanao, it is bounded by the Visayan Sea on the north and by the Mindanao Sea on the south.
Residents in various parts of Negros Oriental, a province located in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, felt a magnitude 4.8 earthquake at 10:32 PM local time on March 2, 2023. PHIVOLCS reported that the earthquake's epicenter was located 32 kilometers southwest of the town of Basay, in Negros Oriental and had a depth of 17 kilometers.
The earthquake was felt in several towns and cities in Negros Oriental, including Dumaguete City, the provincial capital, and even in some neighboring parts in the provinces of Negros Occidental, Cebu, Siquijor, and Zamboanga del Norte. Many residents reported feeling the ground shake and some even said that they heard a loud rumbling sound.
A 4.2-magnitude earthquake was initially detected on Wednesday night, March 1, 2023 at 11:14 PM with a depth of 21 kilometers about 52 kilometers southwest of Basay. Three more movements were recorded in just a few minutes interval; and was followed by another 3.1-magnitude earthquake at 1:03 AM on March 2, 2023. All throughout the day, it was succeeded by six more quakes with magnitudes ranging from 1.5 to 2.8. Meanwhile, at 9:33 PM a magnitude 2.5 earthquake also struck the City of Sipalay, in Negros Occidental.
According to PHIVOLCS, the earthquakes were all tectonic in origin, which means it was caused by the movement of the earth's plates. The agency also reported that there were no immediate reports of damage or casualties, and aftershocks are not expected; although more mild tremors may be expected in the next following days.
In response to the earthquake, PHIVOLCS reminded the public to stay calm and take the necessary precautions. Local officials also reminded residents to check their homes and surroundings for any signs of damage and to report any incidents to the authorities. They also urged people to remain vigilant and to stay tuned for further updates.
Earthquakes are a common occurrence in the Philippines due to the country's location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area where tectonic plates collide and cause frequent seismic activity. The public is advised to always be prepared for large earthquakes and to have an emergency plan in place.
As of this writing, there have been no reports of damage or casualties caused by the earthquake. However, residents are advised to remain cautious and vigilant in the coming days as shocks may continuously occur.