Photo credit: DOST Phivolcs

Residents of Tarlac woke up to a subtle shake this Thursday morning, November 28, as a magnitude 5.7 earthquake rattled parts of Central and Northern Luzon. The tremor struck at 5:58 AM with its epicenter located 6 kilometers southeast of Tarlac City.

The earthquake, which was tectonic in origin, had a depth of focus of 192 kilometers, sparing the region from major damage but still making its presence felt across multiple provinces.

Where Was It Felt?

Here’s a quick rundown of areas that reported shaking:

Intensity III: Cabangan, Zambales

Intensity II: Sta. Ignacia, Mayantoc, San Clemente, Ramos, and Camiling (Tarlac); Palauig, San Antonio, Masinloc, Iba, Subic, San Narciso, and San Marcelino (Zambales)

Intensity I: Sta. Cruz (Zambales); City of Tarlac, Capas, and Bamban (Tarlac); Abucay, Dinalupihan, Hermosa, and Orion (Bataan)


Instrumental readings also recorded the quake in Pangasinan, Ilocos Sur, Mountain Province, and as far as Navotas in Metro Manila.

Any Damage or Aftershocks?

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reassures the public that no damage is expected from this quake, though aftershocks are likely. Residents are advised to stay vigilant, especially those in areas where the tremor was felt.

While today’s quake didn’t cause significant disruption, it’s always a good reminder to review your emergency preparedness plan. As they say, it’s better to be safe than sorry!