Magnitude 6.4 quake hits Sarangani; aftershocks expected

MANILA, Philippines — A magnitude 6.4 earthquake jolted Sarangani shortly past noon yesterday, and was expected to generate aftershocks, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. Phivolcs said the quake occurred at 12:14 p.m., with its epicenter located 37 kilometers southwest of Balut Island. The quake, which was tectonic in origin, was initially reported to be magnitude 7.1, but was later downgraded by state seismologists. It was felt at Intensity 5 in Glan, Sarangani. Intensity 4 was felt in Alabel, Kiamba and Malungon in Sarangani, and Tupi and Polomolok in South Cotabato as well as in General Santos City. Intensity 3 was felt in Maasim, Maitum and Malapatan in Sarangani, and Lake Sebu and Tampakan in South Cotabato. Intensity 2 was recorded in Banga, Koronadal and Surallah in South Cotabato. Phivolcs said the quake was an aftershock of the magnitude 7.8 temblor that struck Sarangani in June. Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said the 6.4 temblor occurred 50 kilometers from the epicenter of the 7.8 magnitude quake, making it an aftershock of the powerful quake. Bacolcol said that yesterday’s quake caused the sea level to rise by about 20 centimeters. The quake prompted court administrators and officials in General Santos City and Sarangani to suspend work. Judges Dennis Velasco and Paulo Aquino of General Santos City and Sarangani, respectively, suspended court operations starting 1 p.m. Filing and submission of time-bound pleadings, and issuance of court resolutions and decisions were deferred. Amid the suspension, the courts were ordered to remain accessible through their hotlines and email accounts. Judges and clerks of court were directed to inspect and assess office premises, arrange necessary clean-up or maintenance works, and ensure that equipment, records and other properties are secured. – Roel Pareño, Ghio Ong