VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) – A magnitude 5.3 earthquake struck the waters off Santa Catalina town in Ilocos Sur at 9:09 AM on Thursday, Dec. 19, with a depth of 21 kilometers, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
Throughout the day, the town experienced over 30 aftershocks, with the most significant being a magnitude 4.8 at 2:42 PM, a magnitude 4.6 at 9:09 AM, a magnitude 4.5 at 3:04 AM, and a magnitude 4.2 at 11:53 AM.
Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Janette Rabara confirmed that while most tremors were not felt inland, the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) team visited coastal communities to ensure preparedness for potential tsunamis.
“Earlier today, after the magnitude 5.3 earthquake, we again warned our coastal barangays to stay vigilant, evacuate to higher ground, and report any unusual sea disturbances,” Rabara said.
Rabara explained that the earthquakes were caused by movement in the Manila Trench, an area where tectonic plates meet and push against each other, which can trigger strong earthquakes and tsunamis.
She also highlighted the town’s risk because of its location near this geological feature, stressing the need for preparedness.
“We have already disseminated the warning information but I would like to reiterate to our residents that our evacuation area is at the Quirino Stadium in Bantay,” Rabara emphasized, further ensuring that no tsunami has been recorded in Santa Catalina to date.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Ilocos Region meanwhile reiterated essential safety tips for residents through a social media post. Residents were urged to:
- Familiarize themselves with safe and fast evacuation routes.
- Prepare a Go Bag containing food, water, medicine, and other essentials.
- Immediately evacuate and avoid going near the shore during a tsunami warning.
- Wait for official clearance before leaving evacuation areas.
As monitoring continues, local authorities emphasize the importance of vigilance and cooperation to ensure the safety of all residents.(CCMT/ATV, PIA Ilocos Sur)
