Global General

Special

Newsmaker

Asia Pacific

America

Middle East

Europe

Africa

Strong earthquake jolts western Philippines

(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-09-18 16:21

MANILA, Philippines: Seismologists say a strong offshore earthquake has rocked the western Philippines and was felt in Manila and nearby areas. There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the epicenter of Friday's 6.1 magnitude temblor was 45 miles (73 kilometers) southwest of Mindoro island's Mamburao town.

Seismologist Ismael Narag says no tsunami warning was issued for the shallow earthquake. Aftershocks are expected.

In Manila, some 125 miles (200 kilometers) northeast of the epicenter, office workers felt their chairs and hanging ornaments swaying for a few seconds.

The Philippine archipelago lies in the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire where earthquakes are common.