Calaca City Experiences No Major Damage After Earthquake
Calaca City in Batangas province, the epicenter of a magnitude 5.1 earthquake that also rattled parts of Metro Manila early Wednesday, reported no major damage, local officials confirmed. The 5.1 magnitude quake struck at 12:43 a.m., but fortunately, infrastructure remained largely intact.
“No major damage was reported, except for minor incidents affecting a few houses in two barangays,” the Calaca Public Information Office (PIO) stated in a report posted on its official Facebook page.
Immediate Safety Checks Conducted Across Key Facilities
Mayor Nas Ona swiftly ordered inspections of vital structures, including power plants, business establishments, schools, and churches. Officials prioritized safety assessments to ensure no hidden risks remained after the tremor.
Both power plants in the area suspended operations briefly to allow thorough evaluations. Fortunately, no damage was found, and operations resumed shortly after.
Schools in the city also underwent safety checks before students returned to classrooms. “Only minor damage was recorded, and no suspension of classes was implemented,” the PIO reported, highlighting the community’s resilience.
Earthquake Details and Regional Impact
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) pinpointed the earthquake’s epicenter two kilometers northeast of Calaca. The tectonic quake occurred at a shallow depth of five kilometers, contributing to its felt intensity in nearby areas.
Aside from Batangas, several towns in Cavite and Laguna provinces, along with some parts of Metro Manila, also experienced the tremor. As of 6 a.m., Phivolcs recorded 14 aftershocks linked to the initial quake.
Community Response and Preparedness
Local leaders and community members expressed relief over the minimal damage and effective response efforts. The quick safety inspections helped reassure residents and maintain public confidence in local disaster preparedness.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ready to respond to any further aftershocks. The event underscores the importance of earthquake readiness in this seismically active region.
For more news and updates on earthquake safety, visit Filipinokami.com.