In Luzon, the US Geological Survey reported a powerful earthquake of 7.1 magnitude on Wednesday, causing strong tremors throughout the city.
As of yet, there have been no reports of damage or injury from the quake that occurred at a shallow depth of 10 km (6 miles).
The USGS reported that the epicentre of the earthquake was located approximately 11 km (six miles) east-southeast of the town of Dolores in the province of Abra.
Manila also felt the earthquake strongly and it is reported that the metro rail system was halted at rush hour following the earthquake, according to a statement from the Philippine Transport Ministry.
As reported by the media, the Senate building in the capital was also evacuated.
In a statement to DZMM radio station, Renato Solidum, the director of the state seismology agency, told the station that the earthquake could have caused damage in Abra, where Dolores is located, but no damage was noted in Manila.
During the inspection of vital facilities, such as the MRT, in the capital region, there was no damage. I do not believe that it has an impact on structures.
