6.6 magnitude earthquake strikes southern Philippines

A 6.6-magnitude quake struck on Tuesday (Oct 29) in the southern Philippines, rattling buildings and sending terrified locals fleeing into the streets, authorities said.

The quake struck 26 km (16 miles) northeast of Tulunan, Cotabato at 9:04 am (0104 GMT), the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

There were no were immediate reports of casualties or major damage, but with several aftershocks to be expected, Phivolcs advised residents in affected areas to remain outside the buildings. Classes in schools were suspended after the earthquake, which also triggered power cuts in General Santos city, ANC news channel reported.

Via Reuters / Jerusalem Post / Straits Times