A magnitude-6.7 earthquake struck the southern Philippines on Friday, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred off Sarangani province on the island of Mindanao at a depth of 78 kilometers. While there have been no reports of casualties, local authorities have warned of potential damage. The Philippines' seismology agency has urged residents to be on alert for aftershocks and damage.
Reports from the affected areas indicate that the earthquake caused significant damage. Walls were cracked and computers toppled in General Santos City, while blocks of cement fell from a construction crane in Matina, Davao City. Witnesses described the quake as the strongest they have ever experienced and said that people were panicking and running to go outside. Passengers at an airport in General Santos City were also evacuated to the tarmac.
The Philippines is located on the "Ring of Fire," a belt of volcanoes encircling the Pacific Ocean that is prone to seismic activity. As such, earthquakes are not uncommon in the region. The USGS did not issue a tsunami threat following the earthquake.
Overall, while there have been no reports of casualties so far, the earthquake has caused damage in the affected areas. The Philippines' seismology agency has advised residents to remain vigilant for aftershocks and further damage.
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