Earthquake in Philippines

A powerful 6.8 magnitude undersea earthquake rocked the Philippines in the afternoon of 17 November. The epicentre of the earthquake was located 26 kilometres (16 miles) from Burias at the southern tip of the Philippines.

Although initially logged as having a magnitude of 7.2, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) later downgraded the earthquake to 6.8. At least 11 people were killed while 730 others were injured and authorities reported that more than 1,500 households were impacted and damaged.

There was no tsunami warning issued, but residents were advised to be on alert for aftershocks which can cause more serious damage.

The Philippines lies on the "Ring of Fire", a belt of volcanoes circling the Pacific Ocean that is prone to earthquakes.