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. Authorities have reported that more than 1,500 households were impacted and damaged however as of yet there have been no reports of casualties.

Scientists say no tsunami was expected, but residents have been advised to be on alert for aftershocks which may have a significant impact and 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.